Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Suryanelli – Where the Breeze Carries the Scent of Tea

Imagine spending your holidays in the peaceful, mist-draped hills of God's Own Country! Tucked away in the heart of Munnar in the Idukki district, Suryanelli captivates travellers with its thriving tea plantations and forests. You can take leisurely walks through the tea estates, breathing in the refreshing aroma of fresh tea leaves while enjoying panoramic views of the plantations.

The name 'Suryanelli' has its roots in two words: Suryan, meaning 'sun' in Sanskrit and Illai meaning 'no' in Tamil, which together convey the concept of ‘No Sun'. This enchanting destination served as a major passage to the sacred Sabarimala shrine in ancient times. The trees were so tightly packed that they created a natural canopy, shielding the ground from sunlight. 

Perched at an elevation of 1,412 metres (4,633 feet) above sea level in the southern Western Ghats, this area witnesses heavy rainfall. It enjoys a pleasantly temperate climate throughout the year, but temperatures can drop significantly when strong winds prevail. Suryanelli is graced with a network of streams and rivers. However, the majority of these waterways tend to run dry during the peak summer months, typically in late April and early May. In contrast, the waterfalls near the Chinnakanal power station remain perennial, ensuring a continuous water flow. 

Located about 40 km from Munnar town, the destination gives a pristine view of the Anayirangal Dam. Suryanelli is located at the centre of a highly delicate ecosystem, where most of the neighbouring areas are designated as reserve forests, offering refuge to the critically endangered species such as the Nilgiri Tahr, Tigers, Asian Elephants, Red Squirrels and a diverse range of avian species. 

With a multitude of attractions, including a tea museum, floriculture centres, trekking trails, boating activities, wildlife sightings and botanical gardens, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Travellers may keep their cameras ready to capture the mesmerising natural beauty. 

Contact:
District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC)
Idukki
Ph: +91 486 223 2248 
Email:  info@dtpcidukki.com 

Getting There: 
Nearest Bus Stand: Suryanelli Bus Stop, about 11 km
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station, about 129 km
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 128 km