Munnar, a quiet and restful resort at an altitude of 1524 meters 136 km off Cochin, lies snuggled in the green and serene Kannan Devan Hills. Panoramic views of low-flying clouds and mist filled valleys make it a haven with a cool bracing climate. Part of its charm lies in the fact that it was opened up out of virgin forests a century ago by pioneering planters.

A little beyond lies Anaimudi, South India's highest peak. In the vicinity is the Eravikulam National Park, the home of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr which roams on the stretch of grassland or is seen climbing the pinnacles of the undulating hills.