Munnar, Kerala’s most famous hill station, is synonymous with rolling tea plantations, cool mountain breezes, and mist-draped valleys. Amidst this lush landscape lies a fascinating attraction for tea lovers and history buffs alike – the Kannan Devan Hills Plantation (KDHP) Tea Museum.
Established in 2005 by the Kanan Devan Hills Plantations Company Private Limited, this museum is the first of its kind in India. It showcases the rich heritage of tea cultivation in Munnar, dating back to 1876, when the first tea saplings were planted in these picturesque hills. A visit here is like stepping back in time to explore how a simple leaf transformed the fortunes of this highland region.
The KDHP Tea Museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts, photographs, and curios, carefully curated to narrate the story of Munnar’s tea industry. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by a granite sundial (1913) crafted by the Art Industrial School at Nazareth, Tamil Nadu – a fitting prelude to the treasures within.
Each display is accompanied by informative panels, offering insights into how tea production evolved over the decades.
The Kannan Devan Tea Museum is more than just a tourist attraction – it’s a living chronicle of Munnar’s transformation into one of the world’s premier tea-growing regions. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine tea, a lover of history, or simply someone looking for a unique cultural experience, this museum offers an insightful journey into a heritage that continues to thrive in Kerala’s misty highlands.
The museum remains closed on Mondays and public holidays – plan accordingly.
For the best experience, visit during winter when the weather is cool and comfortable.
