Exploring Top Station – The Highest Viewpoint in Munnar

Nestled on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border, about 32 km from Munnar town, Top Station is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in South India. Located along the scenic Munnar–Kodaikanal road, this spot offers sweeping views of the Western Ghats, rolling hills, and lush valleys.

The Journey to Top Station

We visited Top Station on our way to Vattavada, passing through several charming attractions such as the Botanical Gardens, Kundala Dam, and Mattupetty Dam. Each of these spots has its own unique beauty, and we will be covering them in detail in our upcoming blogs and videos.

The drive itself is an experience—curvy mountain roads, tea plantations on either side, and mist rolling down the slopes create a postcard-perfect journey.

Reaching the Viewpoint

Top Station sits at an elevation of 1,700–1,880 meters (5,580–6,170 feet), making it the highest accessible viewpoint in the Munnar region. Interestingly, when you stand at the top, you are technically in Tamil Nadu, and once you descend, you enter back into Kerala.

• Entry Fee (Tamil Nadu viewpoint): ₹20 per adult

• Entry Fee (Kerala viewpoint): ₹25 per adult

From the parking area, visitors need to take a short walk to reach the viewpoint. Along the way, small shops sell local snacks, tea, and souvenirs, adding a local charm to the experience.

Sunset at Top Station

There are a few watchtowers at the top that provide different vantage points of the valley. We arrived just around sunset and managed to catch the final golden rays as the sun dipped behind the mountains. The landscape transformed with hues of orange and pink, making it a truly magical moment.

On clear days, clouds hover at or below eye level, creating the surreal feeling of “walking among the clouds.” It’s no surprise that Top Station is one of the most photographed spots in Munnar.

Why Visit Top Station?

• Panoramic Views: Western Ghats and Theni Valley in their full glory.

• Scenic Drive: A journey as beautiful as the destination.

• Sunset & Photography: A dream for nature lovers and photographers.

• Neelakurinji Blooms: Once every 12 years, the hills turn blue with the rare Neelakurinji flowers.

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: Early morning or evening for clear skies and dramatic light.

• Carry a light jacket—the weather can get quite chilly.

• Avoid monsoon season if you want clear views, but if you love misty landscapes, the rains make it mystical.

• Combine your trip with nearby attractions like Vattavada, Kundala Dam, and Mattupetty Dam.

Final Thoughts

Top Station is more than just a viewpoint—it’s an experience of nature at its finest. The combination of history, stunning landscapes, and serene atmosphere makes it a must-visit on any Munnar itinerary. Whether you are chasing sunsets, exploring hidden corners, or simply soaking in the mountain air, Top Station is a place that will stay in your memory long after your trip.

Exploring Ezhattumugham Prakriti Gramam & Thumboormuzhi Gardens Near Athirappilly

If you’re looking for a peaceful nature escape near Athirappilly Waterfalls, then Ezhattumugham Prakriti Gramam and Thumboormuzhi Gardens are two beautiful destinations you shouldn’t miss. Nestled along the Chalakudy River, these eco-tourism spots offer lush greenery, riverside walks, hanging bridges, and landscaped gardens — making them perfect for a day trip with family and friends.

Ezhattumugham Prakriti Gramam

Located about 18 km from Athirappilly Waterfalls, Ezhattumugham is a rural eco-tourism village surrounded by coconut groves, paddy fields, and serene riverside landscapes. The Chalakudy River flows gracefully through here, creating small islets and rapids.

The entry fee is just ₹20 per adult, and parking costs around ₹30 for cars. The village also features a children’s play area and gardens, but the main attraction is the hanging bridge. Crossing the bridge is both thrilling and refreshing, as it offers stunning views of the river, forest, and the nearby Thumboormuzhi Dam.

When we visited in April (summer season), the water level was low, but during the monsoon and post-monsoon, the dam overflows with gushing waters, creating a breathtaking sight.

Thumboormuzhi Butterfly Garden

On the opposite side of the hanging bridge is the Thumboormuzhi Butterfly Garden. Entry here costs ₹20 per person. The garden is known for its variety of butterfly species, although during our summer visit we could spot only a few. Still, the well-maintained gardens, manicured lawns, and play areas make it a relaxing spot to unwind.

The gardens stretch along the riverbanks, offering scenic viewpoints of the dam and riverbeds, often filled with driftwood and framed by lush greenery. It’s a calm and photogenic place, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (March–May): Less water flow, fewer butterflies, but still a peaceful retreat.

• Monsoon & Post-Monsoon (June–December): The best time to visit! The Chalakudy River flows in full strength, butterflies are plenty, and the dam overflows, creating stunning views.

Final Thoughts

Ezhattumugham Prakriti Gramam and Thumboormuzhi Gardens together make a wonderful stop on the Athirappilly route. Whether you’re crossing the hanging bridge, strolling through butterfly gardens, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Chalakudy River, this destination guarantees a refreshing experience away from the crowds.

Exploring Thrissur’s Scenic and Spiritual Landmarks

 

Thrissur, often called the cultural capital of Kerala, is a city where nature, history, and spirituality blend seamlessly. In this journey, we explore four remarkable landmarks — Vilangan Hills, Vadakkumnathan Temple, Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple, and the Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours with its towering Bible Tower.

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Vilangan Hills (Vilangan Kunnu) – Thrissur’s “Oxygen Jar”

Our first stop is Vilangan Hills, also known as Vilangan Kunnu, a charming laterite hillock located about 10 km from Thrissur city. Rising to around 80 m above sea level, it boasts a 5-acre summit and an approximate 8 km radius. The hill is affectionately nicknamed Thrissur’s “Oxygen Jar” for its fresh, clean air.

A paved 800 m walkway winds through dense trees, making it a perfect spot for morning strolls, family treks, or simply soaking in nature. Multiple lookout points offer sweeping views of Thrissur city, the Ponnani Kole Wetlands, and even the distant Western Ghats. With an entry fee of ₹20 per adult and the same for car parking, it’s an affordable and refreshing escape from the bustle of city life.

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Vadakkumnathan Temple – A Timeless Shiva Shrine

Next, we visit Vadakkumnathan Temple, one of Kerala’s oldest and most revered Shiva temples, believed to have been founded by Lord Parashurama. Located at the heart of Thrissur inside the Thekkinkadu Maidan, this temple is a masterpiece of traditional Kerala architecture, with its massive granite walls, copper-roofed gateways (gopurams), and serene wooden corridors.

The temple complex spans about nine acres and houses three main shrines dedicated to Shiva (Vadakkumnathan), Rama, and Shankaranarayana. It’s also famous for its stunning 16th- and 17th-century murals depicting stories from the Mahabharata and other legends. Vadakkumnathan Temple plays a central role in the spectacular Thrissur Pooram festival, drawing thousands every year for its vibrant processions, percussion performances, and fireworks displays.

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Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple – Spirit of Thrissur Pooram

A short distance from Vadakkumnathan lies Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple, one of the largest Bhagavathy (Durga) temples in Kerala. Thought to be over a thousand years old, it is located on the eastern side of Thekkinkadu Maidan.

Paramekkavu is a principal participant in the famous Thrissur Pooram, paired with Thiruvambady Temple in a friendly yet fierce rivalry that fuels the grandeur of the festival. The temple is especially known for its caparisoned elephant processions, vibrant decorations, and traditional percussion performances that create an atmosphere of pure celebration.

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Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours & Bible Tower – Gothic Grandeur

Our final stop is the Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours, a magnificent Indo-Gothic church built between 1929 and 1940. Covering 25,000 square feet, it is the largest church in Kerala and features three soaring spires — two front towers of 146 ft each and the central Bible Tower, which stands at 260 ft (79 m). The Bible Tower is not only the tallest church tower in India but also one of the tallest in Asia.

Inside the basilica, you’ll find intricate stained glass windows, beautiful murals, and a serene atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection. While there is a museum inside the Bible Tower, we skipped it this time to focus on the architectural beauty of the church.

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Conclusion

From the fresh breeze atop Vilangan Hills to the spiritual aura of Vadakkumnathan and Paramekkavu, and finally the awe-inspiring architecture of the Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours, Thrissur offers a journey filled with beauty, culture, and history. Whether you’re a nature lover, a spiritual seeker, or an architecture enthusiast, this city promises an experience you won’t forget.

Exploring Chavakkad Beach & the Floating Bridge | A Serene Sunset Experience in Kerala

 

If you're looking for a peaceful yet unique beach experience in Kerala, Chavakkad Beach near Guruvayoor is the perfect getaway. Located in the Thrissur district, this coastal gem along the Arabian Sea offers more than just soft golden sands and calm waves — it offers a glimpse into the local fishing lifestyle and a thrilling walk on Kerala’s very own floating bridge.

🚣 A Glimpse into Local Life

As we arrived at Chavakkad Beach in the evening, we were welcomed by the sight of fishermen rowing their boats ashore after a day out at sea. The nearby fish market comes alive around this time, giving visitors a true taste of village life. The scene is vibrant and authentic — a far cry from the overly commercialized beaches found elsewhere.

🌊 Calm Waters & Coastal Charm

The beach itself is clean, quiet, and perfect for a relaxed stroll or a lazy evening by the water. With soft sands and gentle waves, Chavakkad Beach is ideal for sunbathing, safe swimming, or just soaking in the view. You’ll often spot people kite flying, playing beach volleyball, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with nature. Bird watchers might even spot migratory birds during the right season!

🌉 Walking on Water: The Floating Bridge Experience

One of the major highlights of our visit was the floating bridge, a 100-meter-long pontoon bridge that gently moves with the waves. Built with HDPE floats and secured by handrails, this bridge allows visitors to literally walk over the sea. The feeling of standing in the middle of the Arabian Sea, with the ocean on both sides and the horizon ahead, was nothing short of magical. The entry fee is ₹120 per person — and absolutely worth it for the experience.

🛕 Nearby Attractions

Chavakkad Beach is just 6 km from the famous Guruvayoor Temple, making it an ideal stop before or after a temple visit. It’s also close to the Marine World Aquarium (around 8 km away).

🌇 Final Thoughts

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we concluded our day at Chavakkad Beach. It was a perfect mix of natural beauty, local culture, and a memorable adventure on the floating bridge. If you’re planning a trip to Kerala, don’t miss this hidden coastal treasure.