About Kolukkumalai
Kolukkumalai (also spelled Kolukumalai) is a mountain hamlet on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border, situated at an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters (8,000 feet) above sea level. It holds the distinction of being the world's highest tea estate — a fact recognized internationally and a major draw for travelers seeking something truly extraordinary.
The journey to Kolukkumalai itself is an adventure — a rugged jeep ride on a winding mountain path that rewards you with some of the most dramatic landscapes in South India. At the top, you'll find an old British-era tea factory still in operation, producing some of the finest orthodox tea in the world.
Why Kolukkumalai is Special
- Watch the sunrise above the clouds — a once-in-a-lifetime visual experience
- The British-era tea factory still operates with original machinery from the 1930s
- On clear days, you can see the plains of Tamil Nadu far below
- The jeep ride through the rugged mountain path is a thrilling adventure in itself
- Tea tasting directly from the estate — fresh, pure and incredibly flavourful
- The trail from Suryanelli passes through beautiful grasslands and eucalyptus forests
Things to Do
- Sunrise Viewing — Arrive before dawn to watch the sun rise above a sea of clouds
- Tea Factory Tour — See how fresh tea leaves are processed into your morning cup
- Tea Tasting — Savour freshly brewed orthodox tea at the estate
- Jeep Safari — The thrilling off-road drive is a highlight of the visit
- Photography — Endless golden-hour photo opportunities in all directions
Best Time to Visit
October to March is the best period when skies are clear and the sunrise views are spectacular. Avoid monsoon months (June–August) as roads can be slippery and visibility is poor.
Kolukkumalai is typically visited as part of our Munnar & Kolukkumalai 2-Day trip or the Munnar 3-Day Explorer package.