From Suryanelli: Kolukkumalai Tent Stay

Planning a trip to Munnar and looking for a unique overnight experience? The Kolukkumalai Tent Stay offers an adventurous way to soak in some of Kerala’s most breathtaking landscapes. While it’s not your typical hotel stay, this experience is perfect for those who love nature, panoramic views, and a touch of rustic charm.

What makes this tour special? First, you’ll get to sleep under the stars in waterproof tents amid lush forests. Second, the early morning jeep trek to witness the sunrise over the world’s highest tea estate is unforgettable. Third, the guided visits to tea plantations provide insight into a centuries-old craft.

However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a luxury resort — it’s more of a camping experience with some basic amenities. If you’re seeking a quiet, scenic getaway with opportunities for photography and light exploration, this could be just what you need. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy guided outdoor activities and don’t mind rustic accommodations.

Key Points

• Authentic Tent Stay: Waterproof tents inside the forest provide a genuine camping atmosphere with necessary comforts.
• Stunning Sunrise Views: The jeep trek to Kolukkumalai offers some of the best sunrise views over the tea estates.
• Guided Tours: Expert guides lead hikes and tea estate visits, enriching your understanding of tea production.
• Value for Money: At $28 per person, this experience offers a memorable adventure with included activities.
• Community and Social Aspect: Opportunities to meet fellow travelers during campfire evenings and shared treks.
• Customer Feedback: Mixed reviews highlight the beauty of the location but also point out some organizational and comfort issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tent Stay Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: Suryanelli Camp

Before heading into the wild, you’ll arrive at the base camp in Suryanelli, a quaint town in Kerala. The day begins around 3 pm, with check-in followed by a warm welcome tea. This initial meeting sets the tone for a relaxed, social atmosphere. We liked the care taken to introduce guests to the surroundings, although some reviews mention a lack of personal contact from the staff — so expect a somewhat informal approach.

Sunset Trek to Phantom Hills

At around 4 pm, you’re taken for the Phantom Hills sunset trek, a short 15 km jeep safari with a guide. The trek isn’t intense — more of a scenic drive with some light walking — but offers fantastic opportunities to photograph the changing light over the hills. One traveler appreciated the “free guide” service that made the sunset trek accessible even for first-timers. The views from Phantom Hills are said to be spectacular, providing the perfect backdrop for sunset photos.

Evening Campfire and Dinner

Back at the campsite, the evening is dedicated to relaxing around a campfire with music, some light lights, and good company. The reviews suggest the campfire entertainment is basic — often just a sound box changing tracks — but still creates a cozy atmosphere. The BBQ dinner rounds out the night, a highlight for many who enjoy simple, hearty outdoor meals. Some critics note the campsite’s cleanliness issues, with litter present, so packing some extra trash bags might be wise.

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Wake-up Call & Jeep Trek to Kolukkumalai

At 4:00 am, you’re awakened for the highlight of the trip: the jeep ride to Kolukkumalai for sunrise. This early start is necessary to catch the daybreak over the tea estates, and the ride itself is an adventure. The road is rough, but the views compensate for the bumpy ride. The jeep transfer is shared, and with around 100 other jeeps, it can be busy — some reviewers say the experience feels less personal amid the crowd.

Sunrise at the Tea Estate

Arriving at the sunrise viewpoint, you’ll see why Kolukkumalai is famous. Its elevation of about 8,000 feet offers expansive views of rolling tea plantations against the backdrop of the Western Ghats. The rising sun illuminates the lush greenery, creating photo-worthy moments. Visitors can also tour the tea factory to learn about traditional orthodox tea-making, making this a cultural as well as a scenic visit.

Breakfast and Check-Out

After soaking in the views, you’ll return to the campsite for breakfast around 9:30 am before checking out, typically around 11:30 am. This completes your overnight adventure filled with breathtaking sights, light exploration, and relaxing campfire moments.

What We Love About the Experience

Scenic Beauty & Unique Location
The highlight of this tour is definitely the setting. Staying at the highest tea estate in the world means you’re surrounded by lush, rolling hills and misty mornings. The sunrise trek and the panoramic views are genuinely breathtaking, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Guided Tours & Knowledgeable Guides
The inclusion of a free guide for the sunset trek and the visit to the tea estate is a plus. Reviewers often mention the guides’ helpfulness and knowledge, which enriches the experience. They explain the tea-making process and point out interesting details that you might overlook on your own.

Affordable Price Point
At just $28 per person, this stay offers an accessible way to experience the stunning landscapes of Kerala’s highlands. The package includes transportation, meals, tents, and activities, making it a good value for an adventure-filled overnight trip.

Authentic Camping Atmosphere
Sleeping in waterproof tents inside the forest provides the kind of rustic experience many travelers seek. The tents are equipped with basic bedding, pillows, and blankets, ensuring comfort despite the outdoor setting. It’s a great way to connect with nature, especially for those used to hotel stays.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Crowd and Organization
Several reviews mention the crowding during the jeep rides and the lack of personal attention from staff. With around 100 jeeps heading to the sunrise, the experience can feel somewhat commercialized and crowded. If you’re seeking a peaceful, solitary retreat, this could be a downside.

Basic Facilities and Cleanliness
While the tents are waterproof and reasonably comfortable, some reviews note the campsite’s cleanliness issues, like litter or broken floors. The washroom facilities are described as basic but include hot water, which is a nice touch after a chilly trek.

Limited Hiking and Physical Activity
Some travelers have expressed disappointment that the “trekking” is minimal — mostly a short walk or jeep ride. If you prefer strenuous hikes or more interaction with the environment, this might not fulfill your expectations. The sunset trek is described as just a stroll in flip-flops, not a serious hike.

Music and Entertainment
The campfire entertainment is often described as minimal — a sound box with changing tracks. If you’re looking for lively music or cultural performances, you might find this aspect underwhelming.

Is This Experience Right for You?

If you enjoy nature, scenic viewpoints, and a bit of adventure, this trip offers a memorable night in one of Kerala’s most iconic landscapes. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic and photogenic escape, as well as travelers who want to experience the high-altitude tea plantations and sunrise views.

However, if you’re after a more active, hiking-intensive experience or a quiet retreat away from crowds, you might find this tour a little crowded and basic. The social atmosphere can be fun if you’re open to meeting others, but don’t expect luxury or extensive hiking.

Final Thoughts

The Kolukkumalai Tent Stay provides a wonderful way to experience Kerala’s highest tea estate in a relaxed, outdoor setting. It balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure — all at an affordable price. While it’s not devoid of crowds or some logistical quirks, many travelers find the experience rewarding, especially if you value stunning views and authentic camping.

This tour is perfect for those who want a quick escape into nature, enjoy sunrise vistas, and don’t mind basic amenities. It’s an accessible, memorable journey that captures the essence of Kerala’s verdant highlands without breaking the bank.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for the sunrise trek?
You’ll be called at 4:00 am, with the jeep ride starting shortly after. It’s a very early start but worth it to see the sunrise over the tea estate.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a jeep transfer to the campsite from Suryanelli and back is included, which makes logistics easy for travelers using public transport.

What facilities are available at the campsite?
The campsite has well-built washrooms with hot water, waterproof tents inside the forest, and basic bedding — pillows, blankets, and beds.

Can I explore on my own during the trip?
Most activities are guided, especially the sunset trek and tea estate visit. The area is accessible for light exploration, but the main activities are organized.

Are meals included?
Yes, the package includes dinner (BBQ) on the first night and breakfast on the second morning, often praised for being tasty and filling.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but be aware that some reviews mention a social, group-oriented atmosphere. Solo travelers looking for solitude might find it lively but also crowded.

What about the crowd during the jeep rides?
The sunrise jeep ride can involve around 100 jeeps, making it busy and somewhat commercialized. Early mornings are busy, but the views compensate for the crowds.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In all, the Kolukkumalai Tent Stay offers a compelling mix of scenic views, cultural insight, and outdoor adventure — ideal for travelers seeking an authentic overnight experience amid Kerala’s lush highlands.

You can check availability for your dates here: