There are few children who do not delight in being let loose to become acquainted with nature. Munnar is one of the safest places to holiday with children. There are plenty of activities for the entire family to enjoy while in Munnar, however you may want to bring a selection of games and activities to keep children occupied when you just want to sit back and relax.

Boating
Boats can generally be found for hire on an hourly or daily basis anywhere where there’s water. The area has no end of waterways from rivers and streams to large lakes and seaside beaches. Row boats and canoes are among the main options available to cruise the waterways. Muttuputty lake and dam is one of the most picturesque spots with the best boating options for visitors.

Cycling
This can be a great activity for all but the smallest family members. Roam free and fast in the breathtaking surroundings. Mountain biking is one of the best options for getting off the beaten track to places that otherwise would be inaccessible. Many hotels in town will be able to supply you with bikes; if not, the DTPC Information Centre will be able to help you out. For information or to book a bicycle call: +91 386 530 679 or +91 386 530 682.

Elephant rides
Most children can only imagine sitting on the towering back of the world’s largest land animal. However, in Munnar this fantasy can become reality. Elephant treks can be taken from Thekkady, a 100-kilometre drive from Munnar but well worth the journey.

Helicopter flights
This trip high up over the hills and valleys of Munnar will definitely score you points with the kids. There is nothing more breathtaking, thrilling or enchanting than viewing nature’s masterpieces from an aerial view point. Munnar Helicopter Tours is the service to contact for more information and to book your flight:       +91 484 668 356.

Picnicking
This is one of the most pleasant family days out. Pack up a basket of your favourite treats, a football and any other games that can be enjoyed out in nature and you have a full day’s worth of entertainment that can be enjoyed in the midst of great natural splendour.

Wildlife Tours
The wildlife of Munnar is something to behold. Animals, birds, insects and much more can be enjoyed from close quarters at a number of locations. For information, contact the local tourist office.
 

Although Munnar is teeming with museums and galleries, the area is ripe with quaint and quiet culture. Slow down to enjoy the area’s relaxed pace of life and your cultural experiences will prove even more rewarding. Among the most interesting cultural activities are visits to the local plantations of spices, tea and coffee.

Plantation tours
Munnar is home to a number of plantations. Whether your interests lie in spices such as cardamom or pepper, or the production of tea and coffee, tours are available at many local plantations. Another interesting tour is to the nearby tribal settlements.

Tea factory tours
The tea plantations of Munnar are owned by the large international corporation Tata Tea Ltd. For permission to visit any one of the company’s plantations and factories, contact their regional office in Munnar.

Munnar is not a commercial centre like nearby Kochi. Visitors come mostly for the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. While shopping is not a major activity for most visitors to the area, eating can be a very enjoyable experience in and around Munnar..

 Whether you are looking for local treats or more common tastes of India, Munnar can provide them. There are a number of eateries offering local dishes altered to suit the tastes of tourists. For a coffee break and a typical Indian snack, Gurus is one of the most charming places in Munnar’s town centre. Cheap and cheerful, Poopada is among the best spots for authentic dishes. Vegetarians are well catered to in the whole of India but one of Munnar’s better options for vegetarian food is Saravana. The East End offers a mix of dishes from across the country and a few local treats for good measure.

Shopping in Munnar won’t take up much of your time. There are no high-rise shopping complexes and the small local markets sell mostly fresh food products. There are, however, a few shops selling the best of local handicrafts, which are wonderful gifts to bring back home. If you are looking for a full-force shopping experience while in India, you are advised to stop off at one of the bigger cities before or after your trip to Munnar

With Munnar’s natural offerings, there are few people visiting who don’t wish to spend most of their time outdoors. The luscious greens of the vast, textured countryside bring a calming sense of peace to even the most energetic of travellers. There are endless activities in which to partake from water sports, trekking and biking to canoeing and bird-watching.

Bird-watching tours
Munnar, with its wealth of natural offerings, is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The area is home to over 500 species of indigenous and exotic birds. The wildlife sanctuary is one of the best places to spot birds in Munnar, or head for the Wayanad Hills for spectacular views while trying to catch a glimpse of India’s feathered friends.

Canoeing
This is not only a great means of exercise but is also a peaceful way of taking in the breathtaking scenery that more often than not surrounds the waters of Munnar.

Fishing
Equipment for fishing can be found in many shops in Munnar. Once you are equipped, set out to any one of the lakes, streams and rivers in the area and try your luck and patience at bringing the evening’s dinner home. Fly-fishing is one of the more popular activities, which will give you a good chance to catch a trout.

Hiking
What better way to explore the mountainous terrain of Munnar than by foot? Treks can be taken all around the area. Tour operators located in the city will set you up with your very own guides, who will be able to take you to the best hiking spots available. For more information, contact a local operator upon arrival.

Horseback riding
Seasoned horseback riders and beginners alike will be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring nature on horseback while in Munnar. A number of services offer horses for rent and trained instructors and guides.

Mountaineering
The peaks of Munnar offer some fabulous options for mountaineering. Ask at your hotel concierge desk about the best places to go; if they cannot provide you this information, the town’s tourist office will.

Paragliding
One of the most thrilling yet somehow peaceful sports where humans can find out what it’s like to be a bird is paragliding. The National Adventure Foundation offers courses in paragliding plus equipment and transportation. For more information contact the foundation on: +91 486 564 494.

Trekking
Munnar has trekking trails abound. Some of the best locations include: Attukal, Anamudi and Rajamala. The tourist office in town will be able to provide you with information on trekking guides.