Chinnar Wild-life Visiting Tour (Eravikulam National Park)

Discover Munnar’s Wild Side: A Detailed Look at the Chinnar Wildlife Visiting Tour

Travelers looking to experience the wild beauty of Kerala’s lush landscapes will find the Chinnar Wildlife Visiting Tour a compelling option. This full-day adventure blends wildlife encounters, scenic waterfalls, and cultural insights into the tribal communities of Munnar. With a mix of guided visits and free exploration, it offers a solid taste of what makes this region so special.

What we love most about this tour is its combination of nature and local culture, especially the chance to see Nilagiri thar (the wild goat) in their natural habitat at Eravikulam National Park. The journey also features stunning waterfalls and a peaceful sandalwood forest ride, making it a well-rounded experience.

One possible consideration is that the tour’s trekking at Chinnar is conducted by the Kerala Forest Department, with guides speaking only the local language. This might limit the depth of explanations for non-Kannada or Malayalam speakers. Still, for those eager to see Kerala’s wilderness and enjoy picturesque scenery, this tour hits many high notes.

Perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a taste of Kerala’s rugged landscapes, this tour offers an accessible, well-organized day out that emphasizes authentic experiences.

Key Points

Comprehensive day trip blending wildlife, waterfalls, and cultural sites
Transportation is private and air-conditioned, ensuring comfort throughout the day
Entry fees are not included, so budget accordingly for parks and attractions
Guiding language at Chinnar is primarily local, which may affect explanations but adds authenticity
Views and wildlife sightings are highlights, especially at Eravikulam National Park and the waterfalls
Cost-effective at around $41 for up to six people, delivering good value for a full-day tour

An In-Depth Look at the Chinnar Wildlife Visiting Tour

If you’re in Munnar and craving an adventure that offers more than just pretty views, the Chinnar Wildlife Visiting Tour promises a day filled with nature, wildlife, and scenic stops. For $41.18 per group (up to six), this tour packs in multiple highlights, from the famous tea plantations to the wild habitats of Nilagiri thar.

We’ll walk you through each stop, what to expect, and why these spots matter. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in insights from past travelers, giving you a rounded perspective that’s useful for planning your own trip.

Starting Point: The Meeting Spot

The tour begins at Amazing Munnar Tourism’s office, conveniently located on MG Road near Saravana Bhavan. The advantage here is proximity to public transportation and central Munnar. The tour is private—meaning only your group will be on the vehicle—so you get a tailored experience. The operator offers flexibility between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM, with confirmation received immediately after booking.

The Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

A key benefit is that you’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, making long hours more comfortable—especially in the warm Munnar climate. Private transport also means you can move at your own pace and stop for photo opportunities without feeling hurried. Past reviews note the driver’s responsiveness, making for a smooth journey even when navigating winding mountain roads.

The Stops: What to Expect

Kannan Devan Tea Museum (1 Hour)

Your first stop is the famous Tea Museum, a must-visit for anyone curious about Munnar’s tea heritage. While admission isn’t included, you’ll get an overview of the tea’s history, the production process, and the importance of tea farming in the region. Travelers have found it insightful, especially if they’re interested in understanding how the landscape shapes local livelihoods. Expect to spend about an hour here, wandering through vintage machinery, tasting fresh tea, and soaking in the lush mountain views.

Tip: If you’re a tea enthusiast, consider buying some souvenirs—though note that the tour itself doesn’t include entry fees for attractions.

Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park (3 Hours)

This is the core of the tour and a highlight for wildlife lovers. The park is famous for its population of Nilagiri thar—a species of wild goat that roams freely in the high-altitude grasslands. You’ll have around three hours to explore, with the chance to see these animals and enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills.

Past visitors love the stunning vistas and the chance to spot the goats, especially during the months when they’re most visible (except February and March). Guides from the Kerala Forest Department lead the trek, but since they speak only the local language, some visitors mention that explanations might be limited unless you speak Malayalam or Kannada.

Note: The park’s entrance fee is not included, so budget for this if you want to get into the protected area.

Lakkam Waterfalls (30 Minutes)

A quick stop but well worth it. The Lakkam Waterfalls spill over rocks into a clear pool, perfect for a natural “shower” or just snapping photos. The sound of water cascading down brings a sense of calm, and the surrounding greenery provides great photo backdrops.

Travelers often comment on how refreshing it is, and some have even dipped their feet or taken a quick swim. Since it’s a brief stop, it’s more about soaking in the beauty than a lengthy exploration.

Marayoor Sandalwood Forest (30 Minutes)

This ride through the Sandalwood Forest offers a serene experience. The scent of sandalwood in the air is noticeable, and the forest is home to wild deer, which you might spot grazing or wandering close to the vehicle.

Past guests describe it as peaceful and a nice break from more active stops. Since it’s a free visit, it’s a value add that showcases Kerala’s fragrant forestry.

Thoovanam Waterfalls (15 Minutes)

Just a quick glimpse, but the Thoovanam Waterfalls are striking. The short stop lets you take in the cascading water and lush surroundings. It’s a photogenic scene that adds a touch of tranquility to the day.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (1 Hour)

The final major stop takes you into the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, you can observe native animals and their habitats, with options for a forest trek. The trek is led by Kerala Forest Department staff, mostly tribal guides, speaking only the local language, which might limit detailed explanations.

Past reviewers note the jungle experience as a highlight, especially if you enjoy being in dense forest environments. The sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna make it a worthwhile end to your wildlife-focused day.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

While the tour offers a well-organized itinerary, some travelers have pointed out that their experience was more visual and self-guided than heavily narrated. Cristina_D mentioned, “In Chinnar none speaks English, so we have just a trek in the forest without any explanation.” This highlights that guides may be more focused on leading safely through the forest rather than providing detailed commentary.

However, this also means that travelers who enjoy quiet, nature-dominated experiences without constant talking may find this aspect appealing. Plus, the scenic views and wildlife sightings often speak for themselves, making it a rewarding experience regardless.

The tour’s cost-effectiveness is notable, given the inclusion of private transport, multiple scenic stops, and the opportunity to see wildlife and waterfalls in one day. Keep in mind that admission tickets are not included, so you should allocate extra budget for park fees and other attractions if you want access.

What’s Missing or to Consider

• The trek at Chinnar is guided by Kerala Forest Department staff, who predominantly speak local languages, which could limit understanding if you’re not familiar.
• Since the tour isn’t customizable, you may need to plan your own lunch, as food isn’t included. There are plenty of local eateries nearby, but it’s worth carrying snacks or water.
• The tour is non-refundable, so check the weather forecast beforehand—bad weather can affect wildlife sightings and the overall experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for nature and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Kerala’s rugged landscapes in a single day. If you’re interested in seeing Nilagiri thar, waterfalls, and forests without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this could be a good fit.

It’s also suitable for those who value private transportation and comfort on long mountain drives, and for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—like spotting wild animals in their natural habitat—over guided commentary.

However, if you prefer more detailed explanations or a more leisurely pace with less focus on wildlife, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The Chinnar Wildlife Visiting Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and cultural insights that appeal to a broad range of travelers. Its value lies in the well-rounded experience—covering parks, waterfalls, forests, and local culture—all while providing comfortable transportation.

The organized stops and the chance to see iconic species like the Nilagiri thar make it a compelling choice for those wanting a full day immersed in Kerala’s natural environment. While some guides may not speak English fluently, the stunning scenery and wildlife sightings often compensate for this.

This tour suits travelers seeking an affordable, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that showcases Munnar’s diverse landscape without requiring extensive planning or physical exertion. If you’re in Munnar and want a day packed with natural highlights, this tour is certainly worth considering.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, the tour’s focus on sightseeing and short walks makes it accessible to most ages, but the trek at Chinnar may be less suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are the admission fees included?
No, the tour price does not include entry tickets for parks and waterfalls. You’ll need to budget extra for those.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Since guides speak only the local language at some stops, having a translation app or basic knowledge of Malayalam/Kannada might help.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
This is a pre-arranged private tour, so the itinerary is fixed. Customization isn’t usually offered, but the timing can be flexible within the operating hours.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the package, so plan to bring your own or buy food during the day.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 7 to 8 hours from start to finish, including travel and sightseeing.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour is a solid choice for those wanting a nature-filled day in Munnar with a focus on wildlife and scenic beauty. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes, wildlife sightings, and comfortable transportation. While it might not satisfy those seeking detailed explanations or a more leisurely pace, its value and diverse stops make it a memorable way to connect with Kerala’s wild side.