What to Do in Munnar – The Ultimate Family Travel Guide
Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats, is one of Kerala’s most stunning hill stations and a perfect getaway for families. With its vast tea plantations, breathtaking mountain views, and a slower pace of life, it offers a refreshing change from city life. Unlike crowded tourist hubs, Munnar provides open spaces and outdoor activities that kids can enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s spotting wildlife, boating on peaceful lakes, or walking through rolling tea estates, Munnar has something for every family.
How Many Days Should a Family Spend in Munnar?
A 3 to 4-day trip is the sweet spot for families visiting Munnar. This gives enough time to enjoy the highlights—tea plantations, nature parks, scenic viewpoints, and relaxed drives—without feeling rushed. If you’re on a tighter schedule, a 2-day trip can cover the essentials, but a longer stay allows for a more immersive experience.
What Should Parents Know Before Planning a Trip to Munnar?
1. Climate & Best Time to Visit
Munnar is most enjoyable from November to February, when the weather is cool, fresh, and comfortable. Unlike many tropical destinations, mosquitoes aren’t an issue during this season, making it more pleasant for kids. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so packing layers is a good idea.
From March to May, temperatures rise, but it’s still bearable compared to the plains. Monsoon season (June to September) is not ideal for travel, as heavy rains can lead to landslides, roadblocks, and limited outdoor activities.
2. Travel Time & Motion Sickness Considerations
Munnar is about 126 km (78 miles) from Kochi, and while that might not sound far, the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours due to winding mountain roads and traffic in Cochin. If your kids are prone to motion sickness, it’s worth preparing ahead of time—bring nausea medication, ginger candies, or whatever works best for them.
Hiring a private taxi is the best option for families. It allows for flexibility with rest stops, proper car seat installation, and a direct drop-off at your accommodation. Public buses run this route, but they tend to be slow, crowded, and less comfortable for young kids.
3. Choosing Family-Friendly Accommodations
Munnar is spread out, and there aren’t a ton of restaurants outside the main town. That’s why choosing accommodation with on-site dining is key—especially if you have picky eaters or want easy meal options after a long day.
Resorts and boutique hotels are the best bet for families, as many offer play areas, open spaces, and kid-friendly activities. If you prefer a more local experience, homestays are a great way to experience Kerala’s hospitality, but make sure they offer meal services.
4. Food Options for Kids
Traditional Kerala food is delicious, but not every dish is kid-friendly. Appam with stew, idiyappam with coconut milk, and mild vegetable curries are great options for younger children. Western-style food is available at many hotels, but options are limited in smaller local restaurants.
If you have specific food preferences for your kids, it’s worth carrying some snacks or checking your hotel’s menu in advance. Roadside tea stalls and bakeries offer quick bites like banana fritters and freshly baked snacks, which can be a fun and tasty treat during your trip.
5. Packing Essentials for a Stress-Free Trip
- Layered clothing: Munnar’s temperatures vary throughout the day. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while afternoons are warm.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking through uneven terrain, tea plantations, and nature trails. Sandals and heels won’t cut it.
- Entertainment for the journey: The long drive from Kochi can be tiring for kids, so bring books, coloring pads, or a tablet with downloaded content.
- Motion sickness remedies: If your kids are sensitive to winding roads, bring whatever helps them feel better—Dramamine, acupressure bands, or light snacks.
- Basic medicine kit: Include essentials like fever medicine, band-aids, and insect repellent (though mosquitoes aren’t an issue in high season).
Best Outdoor Activities for Families in Munnar
Munnar is packed with outdoor activities that are perfect for families who want to explore nature, soak in the scenery, and enjoy some adventure. Whether it’s a short hike through the tea plantations, a jeep safari through the hills, or a peaceful picnic by a lake, there’s something for every family to enjoy.
What Are the Best Family-Friendly Hikes or Nature Trails?
Munnar’s rolling hills and lush tea plantations make it a great place for hiking. Here are some of the best ones for families:
1. Eravikulam National Park
- A short hike with well-maintained paths, making it great for families.
- Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goats), which kids will love spotting.
- The best time to visit is from September to March when the weather is pleasant.
- Vehicles take you part of the way up, so the actual walking distance is manageable for young kids.
2. Pothamedu Viewpoint Walk
- A short, scenic trek to one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Munnar.
- Best visited in the early morning for the best sunrise views.
- Not too difficult, making it perfect for families with young children.
Are There Any Stroller-Friendly Trails?
Munnar’s terrain is mostly hilly and uneven, so pushing a stroller around isn’t the best idea for most trails. Most of Munnar’s outdoor spots are best explored with a baby carrier rather than a stroller. This is the child carrier we’ve been using for years.
Non-Hiking Outdoor Activities for Families
If hiking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the outdoors in Munnar. Here are some of the best family-friendly options:
1. Jeep Safari Through the Hills
- Take an off-road jeep safari south of Munnar, to multiple amazing sites.
- The bumpy ride is an adventure in itself, and the views at the top are worth it.
- Kids will love the thrill of the ride, but be prepared for rough roads and no seat belts.
2. Picnic by Mattupetty Dam
- A peaceful spot perfect for family picnics with mountain views.
- You can rent boats for a fun ride on the water.
- Keep an eye out for elephants, as they sometimes come to drink from the dam.
3. Tea Museum Visit
- If your kids are curious about how tea is made, a stop at Tata Tea Museum is a must.
- You’ll get to see the entire tea production process and even taste fresh tea.
- It’s educational but not too long, so kids won’t get bored.
Exploring Tea Plantations with Kids in Munnar
Munnar’s tea plantations are one of the best ways to experience the region, and they’re surprisingly family-friendly if you know where to go. Walking through endless rows of tea bushes, learning about the tea-making process, and sipping on fresh brews is something both parents and kids can enjoy. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting tea estates in Munnar with kids.
Which Tea Estates in Munnar Are Family-Friendly?
Not every tea estate is set up for visitors, but these two spots are great for families looking to explore and learn more about tea cultivation.
1. Tata Tea Museum (KDHP Tea Museum)
- Best for younger kids and first-time visitors
- Located just 1.5 km from Munnar town, making it super easy to get to.
- Features interactive exhibits that show the journey from tea leaf to cup in a way that’s simple and engaging.
- Kids can watch real tea-processing machines in action. There’s even a tea tasting session for purchase at the end for parents who want to sample fresh brews.
- Guided tours available, which help explain tea-making in an easy-to-understand way.
2. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
- Best for older kids and families looking for an adventure
- One of the highest tea plantations in the world, with absolutely stunning views.
- The factory here is over 100 years old and still uses traditional methods to process tea.
- Getting there requires a jeep ride through bumpy, off-road terrain, which can be fun for older kids but might be tough for toddlers.
- The tour is more hands-on and in-depth, so it’s better suited for school-aged kids who can appreciate the process.
Tips for Visiting Tea Plantations with Kids
- Let the kids lead – Give them a chance to explore, touch tea leaves, and ask questions during the tour. It makes the experience more fun and engaging for them.
- Pack light but smart – Wear comfortable shoes since some plantation paths can be uneven. Bring a light jacket if visiting in the morning or evening.
- Skip the stroller – Munnar’s terrain isn’t great for strollers. If you have a baby or toddler, a carrier is a much better option.
- Don’t rush the experience – These plantations are all about slow travel and taking in the scenery. Plan to spend at least an hour or two soaking it all in.
Best Scenic Viewpoints & Family Photo Spots in Munnar
Munnar is packed with jaw-dropping viewpoints that make for incredible family photos. Whether you’re looking for misty mountain backdrops, rolling tea plantations, or a fun spot where the kids can hear their voices echo back, there’s no shortage of scenic stops. Here’s where to go and what to know before you visit.
1. Top Station
- Best for panoramic views of the Western Ghats
- The highest viewpoint in Munnar, offering insane mountain views stretching into Tamil Nadu.
- Located about 35 km from Munnar, it’s a bit of a drive, but the scenery along the way is worth it.
- Mornings are misty and cool, while late afternoons are clearer for the best views.
- There’s a short walk from the parking area, so it’s easy enough for kids.
2. Pothamedu Viewpoint
- Best for easy access & tea plantation views
- Just 3 km from Munnar town, making it one of the most accessible viewpoints for families.
- Offers rolling views of tea, coffee, and spice plantations, with plenty of spots to sit and take in the scenery.
- If you go in the evening, you’ll get to see the golden sunset lighting up the hills.
3. Echo Point
- Best for a fun, interactive experience with kids
- Located 15 km from Munnar, this is where your kids can shout into the valley and hear their voices echo back.
- Surrounded by lush hills and a lake, making it a great combo stop if you want to add a quick boating experience to your day.
- It’s an easy, flat walk from the parking area—stroller-friendly if needed.
4. Photo Point
- Best for quick & easy family photos
- Just 2 km from Munnar, making it a no-brainer stop on the way to other attractions.
- Surrounded by tea gardens and silver oak trees, it’s the classic Munnar photo spot.
- There are local photographers here offering instant prints, which makes for a fun keepsake.
Tips for Visiting Viewpoints with Kids
- Go early or late – Avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
- Dress in layers – Munnar’s weather changes quickly, and it can be chilly in the mornings.
- Carry snacks & water – Some spots don’t have vendors nearby.
- Watch out for monkeys – They love to steal food, so keep snacks tucked away.
- Be mindful of safety – Some viewpoints have steep drops, so keep an eye on younger kids.
Kid-Friendly Local Dishes to Try
You don’t have to stick to Western food while in Munnar—there are plenty of local dishes that are mild, flavorful, and great for kids.
- Appam with Stew – Soft, slightly spongy rice pancakes served with a mild coconut-based stew, usually with vegetables or chicken. It’s filling but not spicy, making it a great meal for little ones.
- Idiyappam with Coconut Milk – These soft, steamed rice noodles are super light and easy to eat. They’re often served with coconut milk and sugar for a mild, slightly sweet flavor that kids tend to love.
- Gulab Jamun – A classic Indian dessert. These soft, syrup-soaked dough balls are always a hit with kids (and adults too).
- Dosa with Potato Filling – A crispy rice crepe stuffed with mildly spiced mashed potatoes. Usually served with coconut chutney and sambar, but you can ask for it plain if your kids prefer it that way.
- Ela Sadhya – If you want to try a full Kerala-style meal, this is a great option. It’s a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, with rice, mild vegetable curries, papadum, and banana chips. Everything is served in small portions, so kids can try different things without committing to one big dish.
Where to Stay in Munnar: Best Family-Friendly Accommodations
Picking the right place to stay in Munnar can make or break your trip, especially when traveling with kids. The good news? Munnar has plenty of family-friendly options, whether you’re looking for scenic boutique hotels, resorts packed with kid-friendly amenities, or homestays that offer a more immersive cultural experience. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for and some of the best stays for families.
Best Types of Stays for Families
1. Boutique Hotels with Scenic Views
- Ideal for families looking for a quieter, more personalized experience.
- These hotels often offer stunning views of tea plantations and rolling hills.
- Great for families who want to enjoy a peaceful stay while still being close to Munnar’s main attractions.
2. Resorts with Kid-Friendly Amenities
- Best for families who want everything in one place—play areas, pools, activities, and on-site dining.
- Many resorts in Munnar have indoor game rooms, guided nature walks, and even kid-focused entertainment to keep little ones busy.
- Perfect for those who want a balance of relaxation and activities without having to leave the property too often.
3. Homestays for a Cultural Experience
- Staying with a local family gives a deeper connection to Munnar’s culture.
- Home-cooked Kerala meals, personalized hospitality, and a slower pace of life make this a great choice for families looking for something more authentic.
- These are typically in quieter areas, making them ideal for families who prefer a more laid-back experience.
Things to Consider When Booking a Family Stay in Munnar
- Location Matters: If you want to cut down on driving time, stay closer to Munnar town. If you’re after peace and quiet, pick a resort a little outside the main area.
- On-Site Dining: Not every hotel has a kid-friendly menu, so check the restaurant options ahead of time. Resorts usually have more variety, while homestays may offer home-cooked Kerala meals.
- Amenities for Kids: If you have younger children, look for play areas, open spaces, or activity centers. A pool can also be a bonus, though not every resort in Munnar has one due to the cooler climate.
- Weather & Packing Tips: Munnar’s temperatures can drop in the mornings and evenings, so bring some light jackets. If you’re staying at a homestay, ask in advance about heating options since not all places provide room heaters.
Things to know before visiting Munnar with kids
- Prepare for motion sickness: Roads are winding—pack Dramamine if needed.
- Hire a private driver: Public transport isn’t reliable for families with young kids.
- Bring entertainment: A long drive means books, coloring pads, or tablets are useful.
Money-saving tips
- Avoid peak holiday seasons to get the best rates.
- Book accommodations with meal plans to save on food expenses.
- Hire a private taxi for transit flexibility instead of relying on overpriced tourist shuttles.
Final Advice
Munnar is an unforgettable destination that offers adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences for families. The drive from Kochi may be long, but the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and unique tea estates make it well worth the journey. With proper planning, your family trip to Munnar can be smooth, stress-free, and full of lifelong memories!
