A Guide to Munnar’s Best Tea Estate Walks

Nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats, Munnar is not just a hill station—it’s a dreamscape of emerald-green tea gardens, misty mountains, and peaceful village trails. For travelers seeking tranquility, stunning vistas, and a closer connection with nature, tea estate walks in Munnar offer a soulful experience like no other.

In this guide, we explore the best tea plantation walks, village trails, and hilly treks in Munnar, perfect for tourists who want to soak in the natural charm of Kerala’s most picturesque destination.

1. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate – The World’s Highest Tea Plantation

Kolukkumalai is a name that echoes through every traveler’s dream itinerary. Located at an altitude of 7,900 feet, this is the highest tea plantation in the world, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The winding walkways through the tea fields here are both invigorating and meditative.

• What to Expect: Rugged jeep rides, sunrise views, colonial-era tea factory, and scenic walks through endless tea bushes.

• Nature Experience: As you walk through the undulating hills, breathe in the fresh air infused with the fragrance of tea leaves and wildflowers.

• Perfect For: Sunrise watchers, photography lovers, and trekkers.

2. Lockhart Tea Estate – A Colonial-Era Gem

Situated near Devikulam, Lockhart Estate is one of the oldest tea plantations in Munnar, dating back to the 19th century. A guided walk here reveals the intricacies of tea cultivation and processing, with beautiful vantage points overlooking mist-covered valleys.

• Highlights: Walk past old tea bungalows, giant trees, and colonial architecture.

• Travel Tip: Visit the Lockhart Tea Museum to understand how Munnar’s tea history unfolded.

• Perfect For: History buffs and cultural travelers.

3. Kannan Devan Hills – The Classic Munnar Tea Trail

The Kannan Devan Tea Estate, operated by Tata Tea, is the most iconic of Munnar’s tea gardens. These plantations cover vast swathes of rolling hills, perfect for a leisurely walk.

• Things to Do: Join a guided estate walk, interact with tea pickers, and learn how leaves are graded and processed at the nearby Tea Museum.

• Scenic Appeal: Walkways cut through thick green carpets, with occasional views of waterfalls and mountain ranges.

4. Chinnakanal Tea Trails – A Walk to Remember

Located close to the popular Chinnakanal waterfalls, these tea estates offer a more secluded walking experience. Unlike the busier town trails, here you’ll enjoy complete serenity, chirping birds, and postcard-worthy landscapes.

• Local Vibe: You’ll often see women in colorful sarees plucking tea leaves, making it perfect for cultural photography.

• Nearby Attractions: Anayirankal Dam, Power House Waterfalls.

5. Sevenmallay Estate – A Blend of Tea and Tradition

Owned by Harrison Malayalam Ltd., the Sevenmallay Estate is just a few minutes from Munnar town but feels like a world apart. With gentle slopes and beautifully trimmed bushes, this is an easy and visually rich walk.

• What’s Unique: Estate bungalows with British-era charm and tea workers’ villages along the trail.

• Experience: Walk at dawn for golden sunlight bathing the hills—a photographer’s dream.

6. Top Station Tea Trails – Walk Among Clouds

Top Station is known for its breathtaking viewpoints, but few realize it’s also home to beautiful tea trails that seem to disappear into the clouds. The walk begins from the tea estate area and ascends to points offering views into Tamil Nadu’s plains.

• Best For: Couples, solitude seekers, and those chasing misty landscapes.

• Add-ons: Combine the trail with a visit to Kundala Dam or Echo Point nearby.

7. Pothamedu Viewpoint & Plantation Walks

Located just 3 km from Munnar town, Pothamedu Viewpoint offers some of the most panoramic walks through coffee, cardamom, and tea plantations. It’s an excellent spot for sunset chasers and light trekkers.

• Local Insight: The viewpoint gives you a sweeping view of the Idukki district and adjacent valleys.

• Perfect For: Beginner walkers, families, and those who want easy access from town.

8. Vattavada – A Village Walk Through the Fruit Bowl of Kerala

Vattavada lies 45 km from Munnar and is famed for its cool climate and organic fruit farms. This village trail offers something unique—walking among strawberry fields, vegetable terraces, and patchwork farms.

• Cultural Angle: Interact with farmers and learn about sustainable agriculture.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February during harvest season.

9. Meesapulimala Base Camp – The High Altitude Tea Trek

While Meesapulimala is a popular trekking destination, the base camp region features tea plantations nestled between shola forests and hills. The trail is filled with wildflowers, tea bushes, and occasional wildlife sightings.

• Adventure Rating: Moderate to challenging

• Unique Factor: You’ll walk along the second highest peak in Kerala.

10. Silent Valley Tea Estate – Off the Tourist Radar

Located in the lesser-explored parts of Munnar near the Pallivasal region, the Silent Valley Tea Estate lives up to its name. It’s quiet, pristine, and offers uninterrupted walks along emerald tea rows, with chirping birds and distant fog-covered hills.

• Why It’s Special: Less touristy, high chances of spotting endemic bird species.

• Perfect For: Birdwatchers, peaceful travelers, solo nature explorers.

Tips for the Best Tea Estate Walk Experience

• Best Season: October to March offers the most pleasant weather.

• Dress Comfortably: Light cottons in summer and light woollens in winter. Wear trekking shoes.

• Hire Local Guides: They offer historical insights and show hidden paths.

• Carry Essentials: Sunscreen, water, and a camera.

Conclusion

Munnar’s tea estate walks are more than just treks—they are sensory journeys through nature, culture, and tradition. Whether you prefer a misty mountain path or a peaceful village stroll, these trails promise an unforgettable experience. Let the rhythmic rustle of tea leaves, the cool mountain breeze, and the scenic landscapes rejuvenate your soul.