Munnar is a place of scenic beauty, surrounded by the most exquisite flora and fauna, the fascinating tea plantations, as well as large dense forests beckoning forth masses of people who’d love to enjoy the nature. Whilst most locations are known for a beautiful view of the valleys, the slopes and lush greenery, there is a hidden gem 42 kilometres from Munnar known largely for its vegetables. This is Vattavada, in Idukki district.

Vattavada is the producer of the finest crops in Kerala. The terraced land showcases proudly an abundance of vegetables of the highest quality. Vattavada also holds the title of being the largest producer of garlic in the entirety of God’s Own Country. Quite fitting for being known as the ‘Market of Kerala’. It is one of the most recommended tourist destinations, for those visiting Munnar, because of the various places of interest appealing to the people who visit to enjoy Munnar’s true beauty.

Despite being known widely for its vegetables, Vattavada has much more to offer those seeking to explore Kerala. Here are a few tourist attractions, popular among the masses for ages.

Pampadum Shola National Park
This park is the smallest national park in Idukki district, and yet holds a place close to many hearts for its scenic sights and wondrous species. The name translates, quite poetically, to ‘the forest where the snake dances’. It sports a pleasant misty atmosphere throughout the year, with a calming coolness in the air. The Pampadum Shola National Park has recorded about 14 species of birds, 9 species of mammals, 100 species of butterflies and 93 species of moths in terms of the wildlife present here. As for the vegetation, different trees, shrubs and climbers are of note here. It is a popular destination for those visiting Vattavada.

Anamudi Shola National Park
Bordering the Eravikulam National Park, the Anamudi Shola National Park was declared its current status in the year 2003, and has since played a great role in boosting eco-tourism. 62 species of trees, 174 species of herbs and shrubs and 39 types of climbers have been recorded as fauna. The statistics for the wildlife are also quite impressive. 13 species of birds, 9 species of mammals, 100 species of butterflies, 232 species of moths…clearly, there is much to see here!

Mattupetty Dam
The dam, essential for electricity production, is a popular place among tourists for two reasons. One, the ethereal natural beauty of the place is beyond stunning. There are quite a few birds and animals which can be spotted here, including elephants enjoying the cool breeze. Secondly, the place is quite well known for its ‘Echo Point’. This is a favourite amongst tourists as well. The loud calls answering yours as you enjoy the serenity of the lakeshore…indeed, it is a thought much appealing to visitors.

Top Station
A place with history dating back to the Colonial times, Top Station has much to offer in terms of scenic views. The lush tea plantations, the huge mountains, the misty skies and the colourful blooms dotting the valleys…a drive past Top Station is often rewarding and wonderfully pleasant. It used to be part of a monorail line established by the British from transporting tea leaves, from where they would export back to Britain. A flood, however, in 1924, destroyed the railway line and not much of it remains. The signs left by the British are now part of the Munnar Tea Museum, another favourite of tourists.

Munnar Tea Museum
Munnar Tea Museum has much to tell of the history of tea in Munnar and how it came to be as it is today. It was established by Tata Tea in 2005, and has since continued to offer its visitors a glimpse of the past in Munnar. The transition of machinery used, the railway lines that once used to exist and many more displays are showcased here. The Tea Museum also has other attractions which are flocked by interested tourists, like the sundial made by the Art Industrial School at Nazareth, Tamil Nadu. 

Strawberry Farms
The strawberry farms are often welcoming of the eager visitors, sharing with them the goodies hidden away and taken excellent care of at their farms. The strawberries, although quite popular, are not the only crops grown. There is much to be seen and much to be enjoyed. Strawberry jams, strawberry wines and more are available at these quiet farms, often accompanying the jolly farmers who send one off to explore more of Vattavada.