Wild Elephant Anakulam & Waterfalls Tour(munnar valley Trekking)

Wild Elephant Anakulam & Waterfalls Tour in Munnar: An Authentic Day of Nature and Adventure

If you’re seeking a day packed with the sights and sounds of Munnar, this Wild Elephant Anakulam & Waterfalls Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s lush landscapes and wildlife. For around $60 per group, you’ll spend roughly 6 to 8 hours exploring tea estates, waterfalls, villages, and, with a bit of luck, catching a glimpse of wild elephants in their natural habitat. Led by a friendly local guide, this private tour promises intimate encounters with Munnar’s beauty, with the chance to cool off in waterfalls and admire scenic vistas.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances adventure with cultural insight. Visiting the Letchmi tea estate, we enjoyed seeing the local tea process firsthand, which gives a richer appreciation of Munnar’s famous tea industry. The stops at Viriparai and Perumbankuthu waterfalls are both refreshing and photogenic, perfect for a quick dip or just soaking in the greenery. The river crossing at Anakulam, where you can take a swim, offers genuine fun and relaxation. And of course, the highlight—spotting wild elephants at Anakulam—is a rare and memorable thrill.

One small consideration is that this tour can feel quite driven, especially if the driver is not a guide with detailed insights. As some reviews mentioned, if you’re expecting a lot of storytelling or detailed explanations, you might find the experience somewhat utilitarian. Also, travelers staying farther than 5 km from the meeting point should be prepared for an extra fee for pickup and drop-off, which could add to your costs.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to experience Munnar beyond the typical tourist spots. If you like the idea of combining scenic beauty with a touch of adventure—like river swimming and elephant spotting—this tour offers genuine value and authentic moments.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife viewing: Chance to see wild elephants in their natural environment, a rare and special experience.
• Diverse stops: Includes tea estates, waterfalls, a hanging bridge, and a tiger cave, offering a well-rounded nature day.
• Local flavor: Visits to villages and local food, with a picnic lunch included, adding cultural depth.
• Comfort and convenience: Private transportation with an experienced local guide, all entry fees included.
• Flexible adventure: Options to swim in waterfalls and cross rivers, making the day interactive.
• Additional costs: Extra fees may apply for pickup from outside the designated area.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect from the Wild Elephant Anakulam & Waterfalls Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Rijo Villa (Nature Glade Cottage) in Munnar, conveniently close to the bus stand. You’ll travel in a jeep capacity of up to 7 people, ensuring a comfortable, intimate group experience. The driver doubles as your guide, offering local insights, though, as some reviews note, the level of commentary might vary.

For travelers staying more than 5 km from the meeting point, an extra 600 Rupees will be charged for pickup and drop-off, so it’s worth planning your accommodation accordingly or contacting the provider ahead of time. The transportation is private, allowing for flexible stops and a more personalized experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Letchmi Tea Estate

This first stop immerses you in Munnar’s famous tea culture. You get 15 minutes here to explore the estate and learn about tea processing. It’s a chance to see the lush tea bushes up close, perhaps even smell the fresh leaves. The visit is both scenic and educational, setting the tone for the day.

Stop 2: Letchmi Shooting Point

Next is a photo session at the shooting point, offering sweeping views of the sprawling tea plantations. This is an ideal spot for snapping pictures, so bring your camera or smartphone. The view is quite picturesque, with rolling green hills that seem to stretch forever.

Stops 3 & 4: Waterfalls – Viriparai and Perumbankuthu

The waterfalls are the highlights for many visitors. Viriparai Waterfalls is the first, where you can take a dip or simply enjoy the scenery. It’s described as one of the best waterfalls in Munnar, with verdant surroundings perfect for a quick swim or a picnic.

Perumbankuthu, from a distance, offers a broad view and a chance to enjoy some local cuisine at a viewpoint. The 15-minute stop here is brief but offers a taste of the region’s natural bounty.

Stops 5 & 6: Mankulam Village, Hanging Bridge, and Tiger Cave

The hanging bridge is a short walk back in time, offering a bit of adventure crossing over a narrow span suspended above the greenery. It’s a peaceful place for photos and to feel connected with nature.

The Tiger Cave provides a peek into the wilderness, with natural surroundings that hint at the region’s untamed beauty. Though no actual tigers are involved, the name adds a bit of intrigue. The 20-minute stop lets you stretch your legs and appreciate local flora and fauna.

Stops 7 & 8: Anakulam Waterfalls & Elephant Viewpoint

The river crossing and waterfall swim at Anakulam is a favorite for families and adventure-seekers. You can dip into the cool water, relax amidst lush trees, and enjoy the sounds of nature.

The final and most anticipated stop is the Elephant Viewpoint. Here, patience is key, as sometimes it takes a few hours for wild elephants to make an appearance. When they do, it’s an unforgettable sight—large herds, gentle giants, in their natural habitat. Some guests, like Monika, appreciated the chance to see elephants and enjoyed the local food picnic during the stops.

What Makes This Tour Special?

We loved the way this tour combines scenic beauty with authentic wildlife encounters. The chance to see elephants in the wild is rare and adds an element of genuine adventure. The stops at waterfalls give a chance to cool off and relax, especially on a warm day. Plus, the local food and tea estate visits make it more than just sightseeing—they’re an immersion into Munnar’s daily life.

Another highlight is the personalized experience—since it’s a private tour, you won’t be part of a large group, making it easier to ask questions and tailor the day slightly to your interests.

The Realities and Considerations

While the itinerary promises many highlights, some reviews suggest that the experience might lean more toward being a scenic drive than an interactive guided tour. If you’re looking for in-depth commentary about each site, you might be mildly disappointed. The driver, although friendly, may not be a guide with detailed insights, which could be frustrating if you’re eager to learn more about each stop.

Timing is also key; the tour spans up to 8 hours, so be sure you’re prepared for a full day. The flexibility at certain stops, especially at the waterfalls and elephant sighting, depends on luck and patience.

Value and Cost

Given the $60 fee, which covers all entry fees, a guide, bottled water, a meal, fruits, and snacks, the tour offers solid value—especially considering the private setting and personalized nature. The inclusion of food and water means you won’t be scrambling for supplies during the day. However, additional costs for pickup outside the designated area should be kept in mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. If you’re comfortable with a full day of varied activities, including some physical movement such as river crossings and short walks, it’s a good choice. It’s especially appealing if spotting wild elephants resonates with you; it’s a rare opportunity in Munnar’s wild terrain.

Those seeking a relaxing, photo-rich day with cultural touches—like visits to tea estates and local villages—will find it worthwhile. But if your priority is deep guided commentary or a more relaxed, less driven experience, you might want to explore other options or clarify expectations beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy nature and outdoor activities will likely have a good time, especially with waterfall swimming and river crossings. Just keep in mind the physical activity involved.

How long does it take to see wild elephants?
Seeing elephants is not guaranteed and depends on their natural movement. Patience may be required, sometimes taking up to several hours.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear if you want to swim, a hat or cap, sunscreen, and a camera for photos.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes one meal, plus fruits and snacks to keep you energized.

What if I stay more than 5 km from the meeting point?
An extra charge of 600 Rupees applies for pickup from locations beyond 5 km. Confirm with the provider for exact costs.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are not refunded.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized experience.

To sum it up, the Wild Elephant Anakulam & Waterfalls Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights. It’s a great option for travelers eager to combine adventure with authentic local experiences, especially if spotting wild elephants is a bucket list item. Be prepared for an active day, a bit of patience, and the chance for some truly memorable moments in Munnar’s verdant surroundings.