Sandal Wood & Sight Seeing Tour (Munnar Valley Trekking & Tours)

Our review of the Sandal Wood & Sight Seeing Tour in Munnar offers a detailed look at a well-rounded, affordable way to enjoy some of Kerala’s most stunning sights in a single day. Perfect for travelers short on time or those wanting a taste of Munnar’s natural beauty, this tour packs a lot into about five to six hours. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about the area’s famous waterfalls, national parks, and unique sandalwood forests — all with the guidance of knowledgeable local guides.

What really shines about this experience is the ability to visit multiple hotspots without hassle, thanks to private transportation and a carefully curated itinerary. Plus, at just $30.01 per group (up to three people), it offers excellent value, covering entry fees at some spots and including bottled water and flexible departure options. However, keep in mind that some park entry fees are extra, and the tour’s success hinges on weather conditions, which can influence some stops.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a manageable yet immersive day out in Munnar. If you’re eager to explore scenic waterfalls, lush plantations, and a rare sandalwood forest—all in one go—then this tour will likely tick most of your boxes.

• Comprehensive itinerary covers waterfalls, national parks, plantations, and sandalwood forests, giving a well-rounded Munnar experience.
• Private transportation offers flexibility and comfort, with options for jeep, car, or auto rickshaw.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing insights and accommodating requests.
• Good value for money at about $30, especially considering the included attractions and amenities.
• Entry fees are extra for some spots like Eravikulam National Park and Lakkam Waterfalls.
• Weather dependence can affect certain stops, such as waterfalls and wildlife sightings.

Nayamakad Waterfall

The tour kicks off at Nayamakad Waterfall, a striking cascade set against the backdrop of winding roads and tea plantations. Reviewers praise the “captivating” nature of this spot, with some commenting on the soothing sound of the falling water and the mist that hints at a refreshing experience. It’s a quick stop of about 15 minutes, but one that leaves a lasting impression, especially for those who love natural scenery.

Because admission is free, this stop feels more like a scenic preview rather than a full excursion. It’s a great way to start the day with a dose of coolness and tranquility.

Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park

Next, you visit Rajamalai, part of the larger Eravikulam National Park — famous for its Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat species that’s hard to spot elsewhere. This is a highlight, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. The park covers 97 square kilometers, but the tour focuses on the Rajamala Hills, which are accessible and less crowded, according to reviewers.

While the entrance fee isn’t included, visitors mention that the views of rolling hills and lush greenery are worth the extra cost. Expect about two hours here, and be prepared for some walking and a bit of altitude, so moderate fitness helps.

Lakkam Waterfalls

High up at 7,300 feet above sea level, Lakkam Waterfalls is notable for starting from a plateau rather than a hillside, making it unique among waterfalls in the region. The area is surrounded by dense Vaga trees and boulders, offering plenty of opportunities for photography and boulder-hopping.

Reviewers rave about the boulder hiking and swimming in the pools, making this a more interactive stop. It’s about an hour long, and though the entry fee isn’t included, many find it worth the extra expense for the chance to get close to the falls.

Vaguvarrai View Point & Coffee Plantations

The tour includes scenic stops at Vaguvarrai View Point for panoramic views of tea plantations, perfect for a quick photo session. It’s a short, 15-minute stop but one that offers arguably some of the best vistas of rolling tea gardens, as mentioned by visitors.

Following that, a visit to a coffee and tea plantation near Chattamunnar provides insight into Kerala’s famous beverage culture. You’ll see how tea leaves are cultivated and processed, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.

Marayoor Sandalwood Forest

The highlight for many is Marayoor’s Sandalwood Forest, the only place in Kerala where sandalwood grows naturally. Located about 40 km from Munnar, this dense jungle is a fragrant wonderland, filled with aromatic trees and sprawling sugarcane farms. Visitors often mention the opportunity to see wild deer and other animals, adding an element of wildlife adventure.

There’s also a chance to visit a sandalwood factory operated by the Forest Department, where the scent of the wood and the craftsmanship involved in sandalwood carvings make for a memorable experience. The stop here lasts about an hour and provides an authentic look at this precious resource.

Optional Add-Ons

For those interested, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary can be visited for an additional fee, but it requires prior contact and arrangement. This flexibility allows travelers to tailor the tour if they wish to include more wildlife encounters or additional safaris.

One of the major strengths of this tour is the private transportation, which can be arranged via jeep, car, or auto rickshaw, depending on your preference. Reviewers mention the driver-guide Mani Muthu as a friendly, accommodating, and knowledgeable presence. He clearly explained the plan and was flexible with requests, making the ride comfortable and informative.

The meeting point at Rijo Villa near the Munnar bus stand is convenient, with luggage storage and restrooms available, easing the logistics for travelers arriving from different accommodations.

Duration and Pace

Timing is well-managed, with each stop lasting from 15 minutes up to two hours. This ensures a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation. Keep in mind that the entire tour lasts about 5 to 6 hours, making it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed.

For $30.01, this tour offers remarkable value, considering it covers multiple key sights, private transport, bottled water, and a professional guide. While entry fees at certain parks and waterfalls are additional, the overall cost remains reasonable. Reviewers consistently recommend it as a worthwhile investment, especially for those eager to maximize their day in Munnar without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

What’s Included and What’s Extra

Included: Private transportation, guide, luggage storage, bottled water, and flexibility with transport mode.

Extra costs: Entry fees for Eravikulam National Park and Lakkam Waterfalls, additional pick-up or drop-off outside the designated area, and optional sanctuary visits.

This sightseeing package is ideal if you want a well-organized, affordable way to see some of Munnar’s top spots without wasting time or energy figuring out logistics. It appeals to nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those fascinated by plantations. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience and ensure you get the most out of each stop, while the flexible transport options keep it comfortable.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with opportunities for photos, wildlife sightings, and learning about local flora and fauna. If you’re visiting Munnar for just a day or two, this tour packs in a lot of highlights in a manageable, hassle-free manner.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Expect some walking and climbing, especially at waterfalls and viewpoints, but it’s generally accessible.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts roughly 5 to 6 hours, including travel time and sightseeing stops.

Are entry fees included?
No, some attractions like Eravikulam National Park and Lakkam Waterfalls have separate entry fees, which are paid locally.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is fixed, but optional visits like Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary can be added for an additional cost with prior contact.

What transportation options are available?
You can choose between a jeep, car, or auto rickshaw, based on your preference and group size.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at Rijo Villa (Nature Glade Cottage) near the Munnar bus stand.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally yes, but consider the walking involved and the altitude at certain stops.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve it in advance, typically 19 days ahead, through the provider’s booking platform or Viator.

What should I bring on the tour?
Carry comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera—plus water bottles, which are provided.

The Sandal Wood & Sight Seeing Tour in Munnar offers excellent value, a well-rounded itinerary, and the comfort of private transport. It’s perfect for those wanting a snapshot of Kerala’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and plantations without the complexity of planning each stop. The experienced guides, flexible options, and authentic experiences make it a solid choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

This tour would suit anyone looking to see the best of Munnar in a single day, especially if you enjoy natural beauty, wildlife, and learning about local flavors like tea, coffee, and sandalwood. It’s a practical, enjoyable way to make the most of your time in this beautiful hill station.