Munnar to Anakulam: Wild Elephant Village Life & Forest Jeep Tour

Summary

See wild elephants near Munnar, forest jeep ride, village lunch

You’ll ride through Munnar’s winding roads by jeep, pass tea estates and waterfalls before reaching Anakulam village. Watch wild elephants gather at dusk, cross a hanging bridge with your local guide, and share a home-cooked lunch by the river. There’s quiet excitement here — you’ll carry those sounds and smells home with you.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the road from Munnar to Anakulam to twist so much — or for the tea fields at Lekshmi to look that green. The air changed as we climbed; it went from that sharp tea smell to something earthier, almost sweet. Our driver, Saji, kept pointing out places where he’s seen elephant tracks before. I tried to spot them but honestly, I was just distracted by how the clouds kept moving across the hills. There was this moment when we stopped by a waterfall (I think it was Perumankuth?), and the spray felt cold on my arms — kind of woke me up after all the bumping around in the jeep.

When we finally reached Anakulam village, it felt like time slowed down a bit. There were kids waving from behind rubber trees and an old man sitting outside his house chewing something — betel nut maybe? Our local guide, Manu, explained how the two rivers here (Idacholayaar and Nallatanniyaar) keep everything so lush. He also told us about the Muthuvan people living nearby; I wish I’d asked more questions but I got distracted by the smell of lunch cooking somewhere. Later we crossed this hanging bridge that creaked with every step — Manu just laughed at my face when I hesitated halfway across.

The main thing everyone waits for is the wild elephant arrival spot. We stood quietly about 50 meters away (no fences or anything), just watching these huge animals come down together to drink. It’s not like a zoo — you can hear their trunks splashing and sometimes they rumble low enough that you feel it in your chest. Someone’s phone went off and everyone glared at him; even now I remember how still everything got after that. We finished with some hot chai and simple food from one of the village homes — rice, curry, something spicy with coconut. Honestly I still think about that view over the river while eating with my hands.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Anakulam and nearby attractions

• Drive to Anakulam via Lekshmi mountain
• View Lekshmi tea estate
• Visit waterfalls
• Visit second waterfall
• Walk to tiger cave
• Swim in danger free river
• Visit hanging bridge and river crossing
• Experience wild elephants at Anakulam
• Off-road drive inside forest
• Check in

Top questions

How far is Anakulam from Munnar?

Anakulam is about 43 kilometers from Munnar by road.

Can you really see wild elephants in Anakulam?

Yes, wild elephants often gather in groups near Anakulam village within viewing distance.

Is there swimming on this tour?

Yes, there’s swimming in a safe river included during the day trip.

What’s included for lunch?

The tour includes a home-cooked local village lunch with coffee or tea.

Is hotel pickup provided?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; accessibility depends on jeep service arranged for the tour.

Are children allowed on this day trip?

Infants and small children can join if they’re in a pram or stroller.

Is this suitable for travelers with health issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular problems.

Who are the local people in Anakulam?

The area is home to communities like the Muthuvans and Hill Pulayas.

What’s included

Your day covers bottled water throughout, all entry fees and taxes handled for you, plus a hearty lunch cooked by villagers right there in Anakulam. There’s coffee or tea after your meal too, restroom access on board during travel breaks, and plenty of time for photos or just standing quietly as elephants arrive at dusk.