Sandal Wood & Sight Seeing Tour (Munnar Valley Trekking & Tours)

If you’re planning a trip to Kerala’s most famous hill station, Munnar, you’ll want a way to see its best sights without the hassle of planning multiple days. The Sandal Wood & Sightseeing Tour from Munnar Valley Trekking & Tours offers just that—a well-curated, half-day adventure that hits all the key highlights.

From cascading waterfalls to lush tea plantations and sandalwood forests, this tour promises a rundown of what makes Munnar so special.

What we love about this experience are the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the journey smooth and informative, and the spectacular views you’ll take in along the way. On the flip side, since some attractions like Eravikulam National Park require separate entry fees, you’ll want to budget accordingly.

But overall, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a rich, authentic taste of Munnar in a single day, especially if time isn’t on your side but you still want to soak up the scenery.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $30 per group, this tour offers good value, especially considering the variety of stops.
• Flexible Transportation: You can choose between a Jeep, car, or auto rickshaw, making it adaptable to your comfort level and group size.
• Diverse Highlights: From waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries to tea and sandalwood forests, the tour covers a broad spectrum of Munnar’s natural beauty.
• Guided Experience: An experienced driver and guide accompany you, ensuring you get insightful commentary and a safe ride.
• Timing & Duration: About 5 to 6 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure without feeling rushed.
• Booking & Planning: Book in advance—most travelers reserve around 19 days ahead—and enjoy the convenience of a private tour with optional hotel pickup.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins conveniently at Rijo Villa (Nature Glade Cottage), near the Munnar bus stand, a central location easily accessible by public transport. You have the option to select your preferred mode of transport—Jeep, car, or auto rickshaw—depending on your comfort and group size. This flexibility is especially handy if you’re traveling with family or friends, and it allows for a more personalized experience. The driver-cum-guide plays a key role, not just in navigating the scenic routes but also in sharing local insights, making the journey as engaging as the sights.

Waterfalls: Nayamakad & Lakkam

Your first stops are Nayamakad Waterfall and Lakkam Waterfalls, both offering spectacular natural displays. Nayamakad is celebrated for its powerful cascade and misty surroundings, making it a perfect spot to start your day immersed in nature. The approach is scenic, with winding roads dotted with tea plantations that add to the sense of adventure.

Lakkam Waterfalls, perched at around 7,300 feet, is unique because it originates from a plateau—the Eravikulam Plateau—rather than a hill. It creates an impressive sight as water flows into a pool amidst lush greenery and boulders. Visitors often enjoy boulder hopping or even taking a dip in the pool, making this stop both scenic and interactive. Be aware that both waterfalls require separate entry fees, which are not included in the tour price.

Eravikulam National Park: Wildlife and Panoramas

Next is the visit to Eravikulam National Park, famed for its rare Nilgiri Tahr. This park is a sanctuary for wildlife and offers panoramic views of the rolling hills. You might find the walk a bit brisk, but the scenery is well worth it. Since entry fees are not included, budget accordingly. Visitors often appreciate this stop for its combination of wildlife and breathtaking vistas.

From reviews, travelers have expressed delight at how the guide makes the experience informative without overwhelming. One reviewer noted, “The tour is a great balance between sightseeing from a jeep and exploring on your own,” which encapsulates the flexible nature of this part of the tour.

Vaguvarai Viewpoint and Tea Plantations

The Vaguvarai Viewpoint is a quick but rewarding stop for the best shots of the tea plantations. Here, you’ll get a chance to snap some memorable photos of the lush, terraced fields that make Munnar famous. Just 15 minutes at this stop, but enough to appreciate the meticulous farming that sustains Kerala’s tea industry.

Following that, a visit to nearby coffee and tea plantations provides insight into the region’s agricultural heritage. Walking through these estates, you’ll get a sense of local farming practices—and maybe sample a fresh brew or two. Walking along the plantation paths, you’ll see the meticulous care put into cultivating these crops, and many visitors enjoy the opportunity to photograph the vibrant green fields.

Marayoor Sandalwood Forest: Aromatic and Unique

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Marayoor’s Sandalwood Forest. This is a rare gem, as it’s the only place in Kerala where natural sandalwood trees grow freely. The forest, with its aromatic scent, creates a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to match.

You’ll also see sugarcane farms and might visit the sandalwood factory, run by the Forest Department, where you can learn about sandalwood processing. Wild animal sightings, like deer and other wildlife, add an extra layer of excitement. The walk through this dense jungle, approximately 40 km from Munnar, offers a fragrant, tranquil experience that’s authentic and memorable.

Optional Add-Ons: Wildlife Sanctuary

If you’re interested in extending your experience, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is available as an optional visit. The extra cost and logistics are handled separately, so it’s best to confirm in advance. Many travelers find this worthwhile if they want a deeper wildlife encounter, but it’s not included in the standard package.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The strength of this tour lies in its balanced approach. It combines scenic natural attractions with some light walking and photo opportunities, all delivered through a knowledgeable guide. The flexibility to choose your transport means you can customize the comfort level, while the private setting ensures you’re not part of a crowded group.

The tour’s value for money is notable. At around $30 for a group of up to three people, it includes private transportation, bottled water, and a driver-guide. Entry fees for certain attractions are extra, but that’s typical for tours in this price range. Reviewers consistently mention the cordiality and expertise of the guide, enhancing the overall experience.

The Value of the Experience

For travelers with limited time in Munnar, this tour condenses the best of the region into a manageable half-day. It’s an excellent way to get a taste of the waterfalls, wildlife, and plantations without feeling exhausted or overspending. The inclusion of optional sites, like the sandalwood forest and wildlife sanctuary, gives you some control over how deep you want to go.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour is well-received, a couple of considerations include the extra costs for entry tickets and the potential for some stops to be brief, especially if attractions are crowded or busy. Be sure to carry extra cash for entrance fees you might want to visit, and prepare for some quick photo ops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Munnar’s highlights. It’s also ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see waterfalls, wildlife, and plantations with minimal hassle. Families, couples, or small groups will appreciate the flexibility and personalized attention. If you’re someone who prefers guided experiences to exploring alone, this is a good fit.

Final Thoughts

The Sandal Wood & Sightseeing Tour offers a practical, engaging way to experience Munnar’s natural beauty in a single day. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and good value makes it an appealing choice, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.

While the price covers most needs, remember to budget additional funds for park entry fees and optional upgrades. The flexible modes of transport and the well-organized itinerary ensure you get the most out of your time without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic taste of Munnar—covering waterfalls, wildlife, tea, and sandalwood—this tour really hits the mark. It balances adventure with comfort and offers a genuine glimpse into the region’s natural allure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point of the tour?
It begins at Rijo Villa (Nature Glade Cottage), near the Munnar bus stand, which is accessible and easy to find.

Can I choose my mode of transportation?
Yes, you can select a Jeep, car, or auto rickshaw depending on your preference and group size.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, fees for Eravikulam National Park and Lakkam Waterfalls are not included, so plan to carry extra cash.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 5 to 6 hours, making it a great half-day option.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience only for your group, providing a more personalized outing.

Can I extend the tour to include wildlife sanctuaries?
Yes, visiting Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is possible as an optional add-on, but you need to contact the provider after booking for additional costs.

What should I bring along?
Bring comfortable footwear, some cash for entrance fees, sun protection, and water, especially if you plan to explore wildlife or forests.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Generally, yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness as some stops involve walking or climbing around waterfalls and viewpoints.

Final Note

This tour packs a lot into just a few hours, making it ideal for travelers eager to see Munnar’s top attractions without committing to multiple days of sightseeing. With friendly guides, flexible transport, and a carefully chosen itinerary, it’s a solid way to appreciate Kerala’s mountain charm. Whether it’s the roar of waterfalls, the scent of sandalwood, or the view of tea plantations that excites you, this experience offers a well-rounded, memorable glimpse into one of India’s most beloved hill stations.