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Marayoor

Marayoor Munnar

Kerala’s Hidden Valley of Sandalwood and Prehistoric Marvels

Marayoor, located 48 km from Blanket Hotel and Spa, is a rain shadow village lying in the eastern side of the Western Ghats and is bordered by the neighbouring state Tamil Nadu. Marayoor is the only place in Kerala with a natural growth of sandalwood trees.Sandalwood, the famous aromatic wood is yielded by the family of trees belonging to the genus Santalum. This particular wood which is heavy, fine-grained and yellow in color, retains its fragrance for decades. Marayoor Sarkkara( Jaggery) is one of the sweetest jaggeries in the world.


Sugarcane farms in Marayoor known for a tasty variety of solid molasses Marayoor, can see ancient dolmens(Muniyara) and rock paintings which date back to the Stone Age. These Muniyaras are made with four stones to make a box shape and with one stone to cover it. The place is inhabited by a group of tribals who are primarily engaged in agriculture. The temperature in summer goes up to 30 degree Celsius while the winter temperature can come down to as low as 8 degree Celsius.


The name Marayoor carries echoes of mystery, with several interpretations::

  • Derived from the Tamil/Malayalam words “mara” (hide) and “ooru” (village), it means “the hidden village.
  • Some historians link it to the Maravar tribe, who once lived in this region, ambushing travellers from the surrounding woods.
  • Another view connects it to “mala” (mountain) and “oor” (land), suggesting “land hidden by mountains.

Whichever legend you choose, the name perfectly reflects Marayoor’s secluded and enchanting setting.


Marayoor is a living archive of human civilisation:


  • Dolmens (Muniyaras): Scattered across hillsides, these stone burial chambers date back to the Iron Age. Some rise over three metres tall, standing firm after thousands of years.
  • Dolmens (Muniyaras): Scattered across hillsides, these stone burial chambers date back to the Iron Age. Some rise over three metres tall, standing firm after thousands of years.
  • Ezhuthu Guha Rock Paintings: Found in the Koodakavu Sandalwood Reserve, these striking motifs of humans, animals, and abstract shapes date back to the Stone Age, with some believed to be over 10,000 years old.
  • Historical migrations from Tamil Nadu during the 18th century added cultural layers, giving rise to the five villages known as Anju Nadu: Kanthalloor, Keezhanthur, Karayur, Marayur, and Kottakudi.

Marayoor’s charm lies equally in its landscapes and produce:


  • Sandalwood Forests: Spanning over 1,400 hectares, this is Kerala’s only naturally grown sandalwood reserve, protected by the Forest Department. Visitors can view the trees from designated areas.
  • Sugarcane Plantations & Jaggery Making: The region’s vast sugarcane fields produce the famous Marayoor Sharkara, an aromatic jaggery crafted through age-old techniques.
  • Pambar River: Originating from the Anamudi hills, this river flows through Marayoor, nourishing fields, forests, and villages along its banks.
  • Waterfalls, bamboo forests, and quaint hamlets complete the valley’s enchanting canvas.
  • Visits to nearby tribal settlements, ancient dolmens, and a medicinal garden in Marayur

For explorers and nature lovers, Marayoor is a gateway to exciting trails and cultural encounters:


  • Trek through sandalwood groves, evergreen shola forests, and grassy meadows. .
  • Spot wildlife like the Nilgiri Langur and the Giant Malabar Squirrel.
  • Visit nearby sites such as Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thoovanam Waterfalls, Kovilkadavu dolmens, Ellaipatti View Point, and the majestic Meesapulimala Peak. .

Best Time to Visit Marayoor

  • September to February (Winter): The most pleasant season, ideal for exploring forests, heritage sites, and plantations. . .
  • March to May (Summer): Slightly warmer, but still suitable for sightseeing. Sugarcane harvest happens around this time.
  • June to August (Monsoon): The region turns greener and more scenic, though outdoor exploration may be limited by rains. .

For the best experience, visit during winter when the weather is cool and comfortable.


How to Reach Marayoor


By Road

  • Marayoor is about 40 km from Munnar on the Munnar–Udumalpet road. Taxis, private cars, and KSRTC buses frequently connect Munnar and Marayoor. .

by Train

  • The nearest railway stations are Pollachi (85 km) in Tamil Nadu, and Aluva (120 km) and Ernakulam (130 km) in Kerala. From there, buses and taxis are available.

By Air:

  • The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), about 120 km away. From the airport, taxis and buses can take you to Munnar and onward to Marayoor.

Nearby Attractions Within 10 km of Marayoor


  • Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (Approx. 9 km) – A dry forest habitat known for its grizzled giant squirrels, elephants, and trekking to Thoovanam Waterfalls.
  • Thoovanam Waterfalls (Approx. 9 km) – A spectacular cascade inside Chinnar Sanctuary, accessible via a guided trek.
  • Rajiv Gandhi Children’s Park (Approx. 3 km) – A peaceful family-friendly spot with green lawns and play areas.
  • Sugarcane Plantations (Within 5 km) – Walk through fields where the famous Marayoor jaggery is produced.

Marayoor is more than a sightseeing spot; it’s a rare meeting point of history, culture, and nature. From ancient dolmens and mysterious rock art to fragrant sandalwood forests and traditional jaggery-making, every corner tells a story. Whether you seek adventure, heritage, or tranquil beauty, this “hidden village” in Kerala promises an unforgettable journey.