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Munnar

Munnar is in the emerald Cardamom Hills, which stretch right down eastern border of Kerala to the southern tip of India, and at 1,700 metres above sea level, it is surrounded by high peaks and several of the highest tea estates in the world.

The verdant hills are densely forested and support plantations of coffee and fragrant cardamom. The town itself is little faded but the landscape is a stunning, rolling vista of green; perfect for trekking, rafting or adventure sports - or for admiring while enjoying a quiet cup of tea.

Many charming planters' bungalows left over from the time of the Raj lie scattered around, which you will pass during scenic walks through the plantations. We recommend stopping off at Tata's handmade textile and paper projects, featuring stunning creative work by relatives of the tea pluckers, while exploring the tranquil surroundings. Of course, no visit to Munnar is complete without a plantation tour, where you can learn the art of leaf-picking as well as the journey taken to make the finished product.

Wildlife lovers will appreciate a visit to Rajamala National Park, which sits 15 kilometres to the northwest, for it is home to half the world's population of ‘nilgiri tahr’ - a rare and endangered species of mountain goat - as well as lion-tailed macaques and elephants. Birdwatchers will love the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, the first of its kind in the entire Kerala region, which can also be visited from here.

Include Munnar in your tailor-made tour of South India if you are after an authentic taste of Indian rural life in its purist form. One can truly switch off and unwind here, especially when staying at laidback Windermere Estate with its evergreen 55-acre estate, surrounded by little else but vivid greenery and picturesque blue mountains: bliss.

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I dislike feeling at home when I am abroad.
George Bernard Shaw

Client Testimonials

Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India

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