Tea has played an integral part in the history of Munnar. The plantations played a huge role in attracting people to the area. Tata Tea established a Tea Museum in 2005 which has photographs and machineries, which chronicle the journey of tea in the area. The museum set up at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea ensures that the legacy of those who worked hard to ensure the tea plantations survived this long is recognised publicly.
One can observe the history and growth of tea estates in the area. We get to watch the transition from the rudimentary tea roller to the modern fully automated tea factory. Various stages of tea processing can be seen, which includes the making of black tea. One can also see a sundial, placed on a granite block, which was made in 1913 by the Art Industrial School at Nazareth, Tamil Nadu. It has other attractions like the ‘Pelton Wheel’ used in the power generation plant in the 1920s, tea roller and a rail engine wheel of the Kundale Valley Light Railway.
A demonstration room for tea tasting is another attraction where one would come across different varieties of tea. One can taste some of the most exotic varieties of tea available around the world here. It has steadily turned into a must-visit spot for those who wish to delve into the soul of Munnar.
Getting there
Nearest railway station: Aluva, about 112 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 72 km away
