Ambanad Hills and Tea Estate
Ambanad Hills, located near Aryankavu in the eastern highlands of Kollam district, is one of the few places in southern Kerala where you can experience vast tea and clove plantations along with stunning hilltop views. Known as the “Munnar of South Kerala,” Ambanad is a serene, less-crowded getaway ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in plantation tourism.
The Ambanad Hills are nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats and rise above 2,000 feet above sea level. The tea estate, managed by the Plantation Corporation of Kerala, stretches across rolling green hills offering a cool climate, misty landscapes, and panoramic valley views. Visitors can walk through the tea gardens, explore clove plantations, and visit the on-site tea processing unit to learn how fresh leaves are transformed into tea.
The area is also ideal for peaceful getaways, honeymoon trips, and landscape photography. The surrounding forests are rich in biodiversity, and the gentle breeze and scenic views make the region a perfect hill station alternative to more commercial destinations like Munnar. From the viewpoint, you can enjoy breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the hills and plains.
Ambanad is located close to Aryankavu and the Thenmala Ecotourism zone, making it a great addition to a nature-centric Kollam itinerary.
🚗 How to Reach
By Road: 8 km from Aryankavu, 78 km from Kollam city. Accessible via NH-744 and forest routes.
By Train: Aryankavu Railway Station is the nearest, located just 10 km away.
By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is around 95 km away.
🍃 Plantation & Estate Experience
-> Tea Garden Walk: Stroll through lush tea estates with misty backdrops.
-> Tea Factory Visit: Learn about tea processing and taste fresh brews.
-> Clove & Nutmeg Groves: Explore aromatic spice plantations native to the region.
📷 Best for Photography
- Early morning tea garden mist and golden hour views
- Rolling green hills under clear skies
- Plantation workers and estate life
- Birds, butterflies, and endemic flora
☀️ Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor walks and sightseeing
- June to September: Monsoon mist and lush plantation views
📞 Contact Information
Address: Ambanad Estate, Aryankavu PO, Kollam – 691312, Kerala, India
Phone: +91 98474 80930 / +91 85901 87041
Images of Ambanad Hills and Tea Estate
