Kerala
nature
Situated at 8,000 feet above sea level, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is one of the world's highest tea plantations. Located on the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border, this beautiful estate dates back to the British era and was established in the 1900s. The uniqueness of Kolukkumalai Tea Estate lies not just in its altitude but in its traditional tea-making process. The estate still uses old-world machinery and techniques from the 1940s to process its tea.
The remarkable combination of mountains, tea gardens, and, of course, stunning sunrise views makes it really irresistible. On clear mornings, you can witness a magical sight where clouds float below your feet! Many Kerala Tour Packages include this hidden gem in their itinerary. The estate’s orthodox tea-making process has earned it worldwide recognition, with tea experts claiming that the high altitude and traditional methods give Kolukkumalai tea its distinct flavour and aroma that can't be replicated anywhere else.
Day Wise Timings
Maps & Location
33Q5+HRC, Kolukkumalai, Suryanelli, Munnar, Kerala 685612
Essential Information
Point of Interest for Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Kolukkumalai Tea Factory
A century-old factory using traditional tea-processing methods, where visitors can watch production and taste fresh, aromatic teas.
Jeep Safari Route
A thrilling off-road journey through rocky terrain, dense greenery, and steep climbs leading up to the tea estate.
Suryanelli Village
A picturesque base village dotted with plantations, homestays, and viewpoints offering serene landscapes and authentic local culture.
The entry fee for Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is usually around ₹100–₹150 per person, while the tea factory tour and tasting may cost an additional amount depending on the package offered.
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is privately owned, managed by the Kolukkumalai Tea Company, which continues to use traditional, hand-operated tea-processing methods preserved for more than a century.
Kolukkumalai is special because it is the highest tea plantation in the world, offering unmatched sunrise views, traditional tea-making, cool mountain air, and breathtaking landscapes surrounded by misty hills and rolling tea gardens.
The Kannan Devan Hills Plantations (KDHP) in Munnar is the largest tea plantation in Kerala, covering vast estates that produce some of India’s finest and most sought-after tea varieties.
To reach Kolukkumalai, travel to Suryanelli near Munnar, then hire a 4x4 jeep from the base. The final stretch is a rugged off-road climb of about 7 km, accessible only by jeep.
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Rahul Bisen
Reviewed: Nov 04, 2025Viacation ke saath Kerala jaana ek perfect escape tha! Houseboat ka experience mind blowing tha.
Viacation ke saath Kerala jaana ek perfect escape tha! Houseboat ka experience mind blowing tha.
Heena Makhija
Reviewed: Sep 01, 2025This Kerala getaway with Viacation was refreshing. Everything was well managed.
This Kerala getaway with Viacation was refreshing. Everything was well managed.
