Good news coming from Kerala! India’s one of the most loved hill stations, Munnar, has earned a spot on ‘Asia’s Top 8 Rural Escapes’. The global recognition comes from Agoda, an international travel platform. The data showed that Munnar is becoming a sought-after hill station by those in search of scenic, nature-rich destinations. Munnar secured the seventh spot on the prestigious list and is now officially counted among the continent’s most idyllic rural getaways.

Top 8 villages on the list:

Cameron Highlands in MalaysiaKhao Yai in ThailandPuncak in IndonesiaFujikawaguchiko in JapanKenting in TaiwanSapa in VietnamMunnar in IndiaPyeongchang in South Korea

Munnar is so much more than your regular hill stations. The hills here have a different energy and vibe. Set amid rolling hills and misty valleys, the place is all about scenic tea gardens, hidden waterfalls and stunning landscape. The place has always been a popular choice among domestic and international travellers. However, the recent recognition shows an upward trend where travellers aren’t just looking for stunning views. Today, a traveller seeks real and first-hand experience. People are chasing mental peace and slow travel with a deeper connection to nature. Munnar perfectly fits this desire with its tea gardens and cool climate.

The Agoda survey has analysed travel searches between 15 February and 15 August 2025. The results show that people are more into offbeat, peaceful retreats instead of commercial spaces.

Chasing rural beauty

The report is a significant reminder of the fact that travellers today are chasing peace over party. They are chasing rural beauty more than commercial attractions. Tourists are now understanding the concept of “slow travel” where they can sit back and relax. Where overall wellness and cultural immersion take priority. Munnar is one of those places.

What it means for Munnar

This is truly a prestigious recognition for Munnar that will certainly draw more visitors in coming days. But this also comes with a bigger responsibility as preserving Munnar’s ecological balance and cultural beauty is of utmost importance. Over-commercialization can lead to overtourism which could threaten the beauty of the place. On this note, let’s have a look at top 5 attractions in and around Munnar:

Eravikulam National Park: Eravikulam National Park is noted for being home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. It is among Munnar’s most prominent attractions known for rolling hills, and the rare blooming of Neelakurinji flowers make it a must-visit place in the Western Ghats.Tea Museum (KDHP Tea Museum): Munnar is synonymous with tea. When here, do make sure to pay a visit to KDHP Tea Museum which offers an insight into history and flavours of teas. The museum offers an interesting journey into how tea is processed. It is a heritage.Mattupetty Dam and Lake: Mattupetty Dam and Lake is some 13 km from Munnar. Mattupetty Dam is a beautiful place enveloped by hills and forests. The serene lake is also a perfect spot for birdwatchers and photographers. People can also enjoy boating here. Top Station: Top Station, sitting on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, is the highest point in Munnar. The place is noted for offering gorgeous views of the valley and cloud-kissed landscapes. It is an absolute dreamy place which looks otherworldly at sunrise. It is also one of the best spots to witness rare Neelakurinji flowers when in bloom.

Attukal Waterfalls: Attukal Waterfalls is only a short drive from Munnar. One can enjoy charming cascades surrounded by thick forests and rocky hills. The trek to the falls is as exciting as the falls. It’s a perfect spot for picnics, photography, and enjoying the raw beauty of Kerala’s monsoon-fed streams.Munnar becoming Asia’s one of the Top Rural Escapes is a remarkable achievement which reflects a wider travel movement, which speaks of peace, authenticity, and nature.