Visitor Guidelines
Guidelines to help you explore Munnar's forests and the rare Neelakurinji blooms safely and responsibly
The Munnar Forest Division Office and Forest Development Agency Munnar welcome you to explore the hills, shola forests, and the rare Neelakurinji blooms of Munnar. To help keep this fragile ecosystem safe for future generations, please read and follow the guidelines below before you set out.
Forest Rules & Regulations
- Stay within designated trekking trails and viewpoints at all times
- No plastic or littering inside the sanctuary or shola forest areas
- Do not pluck, damage, or trample Neelakurinji flowers or any other flora
- Carry a valid entry permit / ticket at all times and produce it on request
- Entry is permitted only during official visiting hours
- Commercial photography or filming requires prior permission from the Forest Division Office
Safety Information
- Weather in the hills can change quickly - carry warm clothing and rain protection
- Watch out for leeches during monsoon; use leech socks and check exposed skin regularly
- Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never attempt to approach or touch animals
- Trek only in daylight hours and avoid venturing out after forest closing time
- Keep children and elderly visitors within sight of the group at all times
- In case of emergency, contact the nearest forest checkpost or guide immediately
Responsible Tourism Practices
- Respect the customs and privacy of local tribal and plantation communities
- Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors
- Do not light open fires or use firecrackers anywhere within forest limits
- Support local guides, homestays, and small businesses where possible
- Avoid single-use plastics; carry reusable water bottles and bags
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓ Carry your own drinking water and light snacks
- ✓ Follow the instructions of forest guides and staff at all times
- ✓ Report any injured or distressed wildlife to forest staff immediately
- ✓ Dispose of waste only in designated bins or carry it back with you
- ✓ Wear appropriate footwear and clothing suited for forest trails
Don'ts
- ✗ Do not feed or provoke wild animals
- ✗ Do not smoke or light fires in forest areas
- ✗ Do not stray from marked paths or fenced viewing areas
- ✗ Do not play loud music or use speakers within the sanctuary
- ✗ Do not bring or use single-use plastic bags and bottles
Environmental Protection Guidelines
- Follow a strict carry-in, carry-out policy for all waste
- Avoid single-use plastics; prefer reusable and biodegradable alternatives
- Maintain low noise levels to minimise disturbance to birds and wildlife
- Do not remove soil, stones, seeds, or plant material from the forest
- Stick to designated parking and walking zones to prevent soil erosion
- Report any sightings of poaching, littering, or fire hazards to the Forest Development Agency Munnar