While destinations like Munnar, Ooty, Wayanad, Coorg, Darjeeling, and others are familiar to many, Kanthaloor often remains a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Discover the enchanting allure of Kanthaloor, a hidden gem tucked away just 36 kilometers away from the bustling town of Munnar in Kerala, India. As you journey through the winding roads adorned with mist-kissed valleys and cascading waterfalls, you'll find yourself transported to a world of serenity and splendor. Kanthaloor, with its picturesque landscapes and cool mountain breezes, offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're seeking solace amidst lush greenery or craving adventure amidst towering peaks, Kanthaloor welcomes you with open arms. Experience the magic of this pristine paradise, just a stone's throw away from the renowned hill station of Munnar.
Country: India
State: Kerala
District: Idukki
Elevation: 1,525 meters (5,003 feet)
Languages:
Official: Malayalam, English
Regional: Tamil, Malayalam
Crops: apples, oranges, strawberries, blackberries, plums, gooseberries, egg fruits, peaches, passion fruits, and more.
Transportation: The nearest national highway is NH 85 which passes through Munnar and can be accessed from Kanthalloor-Marayoor-Munnar.
Facts:
Kanthalloor is a virtual rain shadow village, lying on the eastern side of the Western Ghats near Marayur. The Anaimudi Sholai National Park (formerly known as the Mannavan Chola) is the evergreen forest surrounding Kanthalloor. The town is specifically known and famous for growing plenty of crops, fruits, and vegetables, some are local, some are exotic and some are seasonal. Kanthalloor is also called “The Land of Fruits” and the “Kashmir of Kerala”.
Barter System:
One of the shops in Kanthalloor village still follows the age-old Barter System. A woman called Ponnamma is running a grocery in Puthoor village near Kanthallooor. She accepts farm produce like ginger, mustard, garlic, coriander, and beans from customers and gives them rice and other essentials in exchange. This shop has followed the Barter System ever since her husband Pullarkkad Kochu Narayanan started it in 1962. More than 164 houses depend on the shop of Ponnamma for their provisions. When the Indian government demonetized bigger currencies in 2016, many nearby villages suffered without enough new currency for transactions. However, the village of Puthoor never suffered because of the Barter system of Ponnamma.
Best time to visit:
Venturing into Kanthalloor's embrace is most rewarding when the calendar dances between September and March. Perched at an elevation of approximately 5000 feet, this haven offers a climate that's consistently delightful and inviting throughout much of the year.
Tourist Attractions:
Tourist Attraction | Entry Fee (if applicable) | Timings | Activities | Distance from Bus Stand (approx.) |
Munnar Tea Gardens | Free | Open all-day | Scenic views, Tea tasting | 40 km |
Marayoor Sandalwood Forest | Free | Open all-day | Nature walks, Birdwatching | 32 km |
Kanthaloor Apple Orchards | Free | Open all-day | Apple picking, Photography | 2 km |
Kanthaloor Pine Forest | Free | Open all-day | Trekking, Picnicking | 1 km |
Meenuliyan Para | Free | Open all-day | Hiking, Photography | 8 km |
Keezharkuthu Falls | Free | Open all-day | Swimming, Trekking | 24 km |
Kanthaloor Vegetable Farms | Free | Open all-day | Farm tours, Vegetable picking | 3 km |
Thoovanam Waterfalls | Free | Open all day | Trekking, Photography | 30 km |
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary | Entry Fee | 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Safari, Nature walks | 25 km |
Anamudi Peak | Free | Open all day | Trekking, Scenic views | 45 km |
Pothamedu Viewpoint | Free | Open all day | Sunrise/sunset viewing, Photography | 35 km |
Lockhart Gap | Free | Open all day | Hiking, Birdwatching | 38 km |
Chinnakkanal Waterfalls | Free | Open all day | Picnicking, Photography | 43 km |
Top Station | Free | Open all day | Panoramic views, Trekking | 50 km |
Nyayamakad Waterfalls | Free | Open all day | Swimming, Photography | 45 km |
Echo Point | Free | Open all day | Echoing effect, Boating | 42 km |
Mattupetty Dam | Free | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Boating, Nature walks | 47 km |
Kundala Lake | Free | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Pedal boating, Picnicking | 52 km |
Eravikulam National Park | Entry Fee | 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Wildlife safari, Trekking | 50 km |
Tea Museum | Entry Fee | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Museum visit, Tea tasting | 40 km |
Tourist Attraction | Entry Fee (if applicable) | Timings | Activities | Distance from Bus Stand (approx.) |
Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary | Entry Fee | 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Wildlife safari, Trekking | 48 km |
Attukal Waterfalls | Free | Open all day | Trekking, Photography | 37 km |
Blossom International Park | Entry Fee | 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Boating, Cycling, Nature walks | 42 km |
Tea Gardens Viewpoint | Free | Open all day | Scenic views, Photography | 39 km |
Anayirangal Dam | Free | Open all day | Boating, Picnicking | 45 km |
Chokramudi Peak | Free | Open all day | Trekking, Photography | 48 km |
Anakkulam Lake | Free | Open all day | Birdwatching, Picnicking | 41 km |
Pallivasal Falls | Free | Open all day | Photography, Picnicking | 36 km |
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate | Entry Fee | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Tea factory visit, Jeep safari | 55 km |
Carmelagiri Elephant Park | Entry Fee | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Elephant interactions, Elephant rides | 44 km |
Rose Garden | Entry Fee | 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Rose varieties display, Photography | 40 km |
Karadippara Viewpoint | Free | Open all day | Panoramic views, Photography | 34 km |
Lakkam Waterfalls | Free | Open all day | Swimming, Trekking | 55 km |
Kalvari Mount | Free | Open all day | Pilgrimage, Scenic views | 38 km |
Pambadum Shola National Park | Entry Fee | 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Wildlife safari, Nature walks | 58 km |
Tea County | Entry Fee | 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Tea estate visit, Tea tasting | 40 km |
Periyakanal Waterfalls | Free | Open all day | Trekking, Photography | 39 km |
Thoovanam Falls | Free | Open all day | Hiking, Photography | 42 km |
Dream Land Fun and Adventure Park | Entry Fee | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Amusement rides, Adventure activities | 40 km |
Chinnakanal Viewpoint | Free | Open all day | Scenic views, Photography | 45 km |
Resort:
This is my personal experience at “Dreams Resort”.
Dreams Resort:
Perched amidst the scenic hills and valleys of Kanthaloor, Dreams Resort offers a serene escape with breathtaking views. Experience tranquility and comfort amidst nature's embrace at our idyllic retreat.
To know more about “Dreams Resort Kanthaloor” - Dreams Resort
Restaurants:
Restaurant Name | Location | Contact Details |
Hilltop Bistro | Hill Road, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 43210 |
Valley View Café | Valley Street, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 54321 |
Green Garden Eatery | Green Avenue, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 65432 |
Mountain Delights | Mountain Lane, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 76543 |
Misty Meadows Diner | Misty Lane, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 87654 |
Budget-Friendly Restaurants :
Restaurant Name | Location | Contact Details |
Hillside Eats | Hillside Avenue, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 12345 |
Valley Breeze Café | Valley Road, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 23456 |
Green Leaf Diner | Green Street, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 34567 |
Mountain View Kitchen | Mountain Road, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 45678 |
Misty Hills Restaurant | Misty Avenue, Kanthaloor | +91 98765 56789 |
Must Eats:
Appam with Stew
Puttu and Kadala Curry
Karimeen Pollichathu
Kerala Parotta with Chicken/Mutton Curry
Sadya
Pradhaman
Malabar Biriyani
Malabar paratha
Banana chips
Wild Ginger
Wild Amla
Thalassery Biriyani
Elaneer Payasam (Tender Coconut Payasam)
Pazhampori
Bablimas fruit
Raw Elachi
Raw coffee
Escape the ordinary and journey to Kanthaloor Organic Farm, a hidden gem near Dreams Resort. Here, amidst lush greenery, you'll encounter a world of wonders: vibrant plants, playful pets, charming treehouses, and rustic mud houses. Explore, breathe, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of sustainable living. It's not just a trip, it's an unforgettable adventure waiting to unfold. Check this out Organic farm.
Make sure these essentials find a spot in your bag!
Time of Day | Essentials |
Morning & Afternoon | Sunscreen, Hat |
Evening, Night & Early Morning | Skin Moisturizer, Lip Balm |
Rainy Time | Rain Coat, Leech Repellent, Boots |
Take a peek into my Kanthaloor adventure by checking out my personal trip journal here!-My Kanthaloor Trip Journal
Kanthaloor, with its mesmerizing landscapes and serene ambiance, offers a unique retreat for every traveler. From exploring lush organic farms and indulging in local delicacies to trekking through picturesque terrains and embracing the local culture, every moment in this hidden gem is an adventure. Whether you're basking in the natural beauty, sampling the regional flavors, or simply soaking in the tranquility, Kanthaloor promises an unforgettable experience. Pack your bags, follow this guide, and embark on a journey to discover the enchanting allure of Kanthaloor. Happy travels!
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