Here are some visual glimpses of camping at Top Station near Munnar—tents pitched atop misty hills, glowing campfires, and dramatic skies that capture the magic of the experience.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Camping at Top Station: A Detailed Description
1. Cloud Farm Camp — High-Elevation Wilderness
- Location & Nature: Situated at Kottagudi Hills near Top Station, Cloud Farm Camp is one of the highest camps in Kerala, perched at ~7,200 ft (approx. 2,195 m). It’s enveloped by grasslands and shola forests, offering serene, unspoiled natural surroundings.
- Experience & Atmosphere:
- Immersive, remote setting with the rare sensation of clouds drifting by; on foggy days, visibility may drop, creating a mystical ambiance. You may even feel as if the clouds are touching you.
- Expansive views of the Palani Hills, Theni plains, and distant landscapes on clear days.
- Facilities:
- Simple tents, basic bathroom facilities (using natural stream water), and a shared kitchen offering decent meals—not luxurious but cozy.
- No electricity, Wi‑Fi, or AC—this is authentic, eco-friendly camping.
- Guided by nature enthusiasts who prioritize environmental conservation over commercialism.
- Access:
- Accessible via jeep from Munnar to Ellappetty (~28 km), then a 4 km trek across tea estates, shola forest, and grasslands (~1 hour). No vehicular access beyond Ellappetty.
- Group Size & Rates:
- Ideal for groups—minimum of 10 people required to book. Two campsites are available.
- Activities:
- Nature photography (wildlife, birds, butterflies), bird‑watching, meditation, yoga, stargazing, early morning treks, and peaceful quietude under starry skies.
- Ideal for those seeking escape into nature, far from urban distractions.
2. Munnar Tent Camps at Top Station View Point
- Setting & Altitude: Located at around 1,880 m above sea level (~6,170 ft), roughly 40 km from Munnar town. Offers sweeping views of the Western Ghats and Theni valley.
- Experience & Ambience:
- Camp at the iconic viewpoint, often described as “touching the clouds”—making it a famous sunrise spot.
- Enjoy a mix of adventure, romance, family time, or spiritual quiet amid mist-shrouded landscapes.
- Activities Included:
- Camping in well-equipped tents with sleeping bags, emergency lamps, and campfire setup.
- Campfire + Barbecue, music, friendly atmosphere, and regional dining (often South Indian breakfast like idly, dosa, and fresh dinner).
- Trekking, mountain biking, horse riding, and bird‑watching with endemic high‑altitude species.
- Fresh‑up rooms provided next morning in a nearby guesthouse for added comfort.
- Climate & Practical Info:
- Daytime temperatures are mild (~20 °C), while nights can dip to 0–10 °C.
- Operates as basic, nature‑immersive stays—not luxury. ID proof required; kids under 6 often stay free.
- Booking options: approx. ₹2000 per person; group discounts available
- Ideal For:
- Families, couples, and group trips. Loved by thousands of campers—10000+ experiences claimed.
- Great for combining stargazing, sunrise views, and light adventure.
3. General Top Station Camping Highlights
Romantic & Family Appeal: With its sunrise-sunset backdrop, and romantic, peaceful vibe, it suits couples, families, and reflective travelers alike
Stargazing & Nature’s Grandeur: Top Station is a premier camping spot with clear skies perfect for star trails and night photography, alongside misty mornings and dramatic views.
Scenic Trekking Routes:
Several trekking trails, including:
From Kurangani, ~9 km one-way, moderate difficulty (~6 hours).
Other trails into Pambadum Shola National Park, Vattavada, or Tamil Nadu regions, requiring permits.
Panoramic Vistas & Botanical Rarity:
The rare Neelakurunji flowers (blooming every 12 years) and lush landscapes make this a photographer’s dream.
Tips for Planning Your Camping Trip
- Choose according to your vibe:
- For deeply immersive wilderness and minimal infrastructure → Cloud Farm Camp
- For easier access with organized facilities and mixed adventure → Munnar Tent Camps
- Prepare for weather: Nights can get chilly (0–10 °C or lower), so bring warm clothing and blankets.
- Book early for groups: Especially for Cloud Farm—requires minimum 10 people and pre-booking.
- What to carry:
- ID proof (required)
- Flashlight/headlamps, cameras, rain gear
- Warm layers and comfortable trekking shoes
- Combine with trekking & sightseeing:
- Try trekking routes from Kurangani for added adventure
- Don’t miss sunrise and star-gazing sessions
- Watch out for Neelakurunji if visiting during blooming seasons
