Tea Museum, Munnar
Tea Museum, Munnar – A Journey Through Kerala’s Fragrant Tea Heritage
Nestled amidst the rolling emerald hills of Munnar, the Tata Tea Museum (officially the KDHP Tea Museum) is a must-visit attraction for anyone curious about the origins, art, and aroma of Kerala’s world-famous tea. Located just 2 km from Munnar town, this museum offers a fascinating journey through time — from the days of British planters to the modern tea-making process that still defines the high ranges of Idukki.
If you’ve ever wanted to know how your cup of tea comes to life, the Tea Museum is where you’ll watch, smell, and taste history come alive!
A Heritage Steeped in Aroma and History
The Tea Museum was established by the Kannan Devan Hills Plantation (KDHP), one of the oldest and most iconic tea estates in India. It celebrates over 150 years of Munnar’s tea legacy, displaying a treasure trove of vintage photographs, colonial-era machines, and stories of the pioneering planters who shaped the region.
The museum sits amidst lush green tea gardens, giving visitors a firsthand glimpse of the plantation life that still thrives in the hills of Munnar.
What to Expect at the Tea Museum
Tea Processing Demonstration:Watch the fascinating journey of tea leaves — from fresh plucking to withering, rolling, drying, and grading. You’ll learn how black, green, and white teas are made.
Antique Exhibits:Explore an impressive collection of old tea-rolling machines, wooden tea chests, hand-sorting tables, and early 20th-century photographs that tell the story of Munnar’s transformation from wilderness to plantation paradise.
Documentary Screening:A short yet captivating film chronicles the history of Munnar’s tea industry — its origins, evolution, and cultural impact on Kerala’s hill stations.
Tea Tasting:Sip on freshly brewed varieties of Munnar’s finest tea — from delicate white blends to strong black teas — while enjoying panoramic views of the hills.
Photo Opportunities:The museum’s viewpoint and adjoining plantations offer breathtaking spots for photography and selfies amidst endless waves of green.
Why Visit the Tea Museum?
The Tea Museum isn’t just about tea — it’s about heritage, craftsmanship, and connection. It gives you a rare peek into colonial history, engineering innovation, and the daily lives of plantation workers who have kept Munnar’s tea culture alive for generations.
For travelers, it’s both educational and experiential — you don’t just learn about tea; you experience its essence.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Tea Museum, Munnar, is from September to May, when the weather is cool and the hills are lush. Early morning visits are perfect for photography and exploring the nearby plantations.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays)Entry Fee: ₹125 (adults), ₹90 (children), additional charge for camera/video.
How to Reach
Location: KDHP Tea Museum, Nallathanni Estate, Munnar, Kerala
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (110 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva (110 km)
By Road: Easily accessible via NH85 from Kochi, Aluva, or Thekkady. Local taxis and auto-rickshaws are available in Munnar.
Nearby Attractions
Eravikulam National Park – Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the blooming Neelakurinji flower.
Mattupetty Dam & Lake – Perfect for boating and scenic views.
Rose Garden – A vibrant spot filled with exotic blooms and spice plants.
Why Travelers Love the Tea Museum
Explore Munnar’s 150-year-old tea-making tradition
Enjoy live demonstrations and tea tastings
Perfect for families, history buffs, and tea enthusiasts
Learn, sip, and shop — all in one scenic experience