Chinnar Wild-life Visiting Tour (Eravikulam National Park)

If you’re planning a day out in Munnar that focuses on wildlife and nature, the Chinnar Wildlife Visiting Tour offers a compelling mix of scenic spots, wildlife sightings, and authentic forest experiences. While it’s not a full-on safari, the itinerary promises a variety of landscapes—from lush waterfalls to tribal insights—making it a versatile choice for nature lovers.

What we love about this tour are the stunning vistas at Eravikulam, the unique experience of trekking through Chinnar Sanctuary, and the chance to learn about the local tribes and their environment. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite structured and may feel somewhat rushed, especially if you’re keen on spending more time at each site.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and cultural encounters, but might not be ideal if you’re looking for intensive trekking or detailed guides in English. Overall, it’s a fairly priced, well-rounded way to see a good chunk of Munnar’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Value for Money: At $41.18 per group, it offers a full-day experience with private transport.
• Diverse Highlights: From tea museums to waterfalls, the tour showcases Munnar’s landscape and culture.
• Wildlife & Trekking: Opportunities to see Nilgiri thar and wild animals, with a forest trek conducted by Kerala Forest Department staff.
• Guidance & Language: Guides speak only local languages, which may limit explanations during the Chinnar trek.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Booking & Timing: Most travelers book about a week in advance, with tours running Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Analyzing the Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins conveniently at the MG Road near Saravana Bhavan in Munnar, with an air-conditioned vehicle ready to whisk you away. The private transport means you won’t be part of a large, crowded group, which helps keep the experience relaxed and tailored to your pace. From the start, the journey is a highlight—road trips through the winding hills of Munnar offer views that make the 7 to 8-hour duration fly by.

Kannan Devan Tea Museum

Your first stop is the Kannan Devan Tea Museum, which isn’t just about tasting tea—it’s about understanding the entire process. It’s a solid introduction to Munnar’s history and the cultivation of its signature crop. We loved how this stop sets the tone, blending cultural insight with lush scenery. Keep in mind, admission is not included, so budget for that if you want to explore thoroughly.

Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park

Next, you’ll visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilagiri thar, a wild goat species unique to this region. The park is one of Munnar’s star attractions, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can expect breathtaking views of rolling hills and grasslands, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot the thar grazing on the slopes.

Despite some reviews pointing out that guides only speak local languages, the staff at Eravikulam do their best to give a memorable experience. You’ll generally have around 3 hours here, allowing for some decent exploration. Note that entry tickets are not included, so plan accordingly.

Lakkam Waterfalls

A short stop at Lakkam Waterfalls offers a chance for a quick splash or just to marvel at the cascading water. Many find this spot particularly photogenic; the fresh spray and greenery feel refreshing after the drive.

Marayoor Sandalwood Forest

A scenic drive through the Sandalwood Forest is a quieter, more relaxed experience. You can enjoy a 30-minute ride here, with the bonus of spotting wild-deer among the fragrant trees. This stop is a personal favorite for those wanting a peaceful moment amidst nature.

Thoovanam Waterfalls

A brief 15-minute visit to Thoovanam Falls offers a quick but picturesque break. The falls are a lovely sight, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities for photos. While the visit is short, it’s an inviting reminder of the region’s natural beauty.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary & Trek

The final stop is the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can encounter native animals and their habitat. The 1-hour trek through the forest is led by staff from the Kerala Forest Department, mainly speaking the local language. This means explanations might be limited unless you know some Malayalam, but the experience of walking through the jungle and observing wildlife firsthand is still rewarding.

Reviewers note that the guides are tribal people, which adds an authentic touch, but also a language barrier—something to consider if you’re hoping for detailed commentary. Many travelers enjoy the jungle atmosphere, and some appreciated the “trek organized by Kerala Forest and wildlife department,” which adds a layer of credibility.

Practical Details and Tips

Price & Value: For $41.18, this is a reasonably priced full-day tour considering private transport and multiple sites. While entry fees for parks and museums are extra, the overall cost remains accessible for most travelers. The variety of stops means you’re getting a broad taste of Munnar’s diverse landscape, which is a significant value.

Timing & Duration: The tour runs from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, giving you a full day of exploration. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a packed schedule, as each stop has a designated time window.

Group Size & Guides: Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, making the experience more comfortable and customizable. Guides are knowledgeable about the local environment but mainly speak the local language, which can limit detailed explanations.

Weather & Clothing: Expect a mix of weather conditions—some parts may be cooler and misty, especially near waterfalls and the sanctuary. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and trekking, and bring rain gear if there’s a chance of showers.

Additional Costs: Remember that admission tickets are not included for the museums and parks, so allocate some extra budget if you plan on visiting these sites independently.

Authentic Experiences & What Travelers Say

One reviewer remarked that the tour is “very touristy,” noting that the guides only take you to key sites and that there’s limited explanation during the forest trek. This highlights the importance of managing expectations—it’s more about seeing the sights than deep wildlife education.

Another traveler described the day as “exciting to see so much of the area,” praising the responsiveness of the driver and the breathtaking scenery. The views along the winding roads are definitely a highlight, with each bend revealing a new panorama that makes your camera work worthwhile.

The guides’ local language and tribal background add authenticity, but they might be less informative unless you speak Malayalam. Some visitors found the nature walk to be straightforward but enjoyed the natural feel of walking through untouched jungle.

Is This Tour for You?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day exploring Munnar’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple individual trips. It’s perfect if you’re keen on wildlife sightings, scenic drives, and waterfalls, and don’t mind a few language barriers during the trek.

If you prefer more in-depth wildlife explanations or guided hikes in English, this might not be your top choice. However, if you’re after stunning photo opportunities, cultural insights, and a taste of the local wilderness, this tour offers good value.

The Sum Up

The Chinnar Wildlife Visiting Tour offers a lively, scenic, and authentic glimpse into Munnar’s natural splendors. Its combination of wildlife, waterfalls, and cultural stops make it a versatile choice for those wanting to see a lot in one day. While guides primarily speak the local language, their tribal knowledge adds a genuine touch to the experience.

Travelers who appreciate breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and a flexible itinerary will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those who want a private, hassle-free day with diverse highlights and are comfortable with some language limitations during the forest trek.

This tour balances value and variety and makes for an engaging day outside the usual tourist spots—perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but young children should be comfortable with walking and being outdoors for extended periods.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food at stops if needed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 7 days ahead, which helps secure your preferred date.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for the trekking portions.

Are entrance fees included?
No, you’ll need to pay for museum and park entries separately.

Can guides speak English?
Guides mainly speak the local language, so expect some communication barriers during the trek.

What is the duration of each stop?
Stops vary from 15 minutes at Thoovanam Falls to 3 hours at Eravikulam National Park.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the private air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey comfortable and convenient.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you might be able to discuss preferences with the operator beforehand.

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.